Solar Panel Cost Guide in Larkspur, CA (2023 Update)
- Larkspur Solar Installation Cost: $6,020
- 25-Year Savings: $20,311
- Payback Period: 5.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Larkspur
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Larkspur.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Larkspur is 2.73 per watt. Because a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Larkspur, the average price of going solar will be about $6,020 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Larkspur can save about $32,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installer in Larkspur, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Larkspur
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,966 |
| 3 years | $-2,860 |
| 5 years | $-753 |
| 7 years | $1,353 |
| 9 years | $3,460 |
| 11 years | $5,566 |
| 13 years | $7,672 |
| 15 years | $9,779 |
| 17 years | $11,885 |
| 19 years | $13,992 |
| 21 years | $16,098 |
| 23 years | $18,205 |
| 25 years | $20,311 |
Top Solar Installers in Larkspur
Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Larkspur, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Larkspur
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Larkspur
For many Larkspur homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Larkspur, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Larkspur, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Larkspur homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Larkspur, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. The company's size sometimes plays the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.84 | $11,925 | $38,220 | 5.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $51,266 | 5.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $64,465 | 5.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $77,816 | 5.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $91,321 | 5.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $104,978 | 5.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $118,788 | 5.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $132,751 | 5.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you go with.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Larkspur, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Larkspur?
The average cost of solar panels in Larkspur is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Larkspur?
A solar panel system isn't free in Larkspur, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Does Larkspur have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.