Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lemon Hill, CA (2023 Update)

  • Lemon Hill Solar Installation Cost: $5,894
  • 25-Year Savings: $14,686
  • Payback Period: 7.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lemon Hill

Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Lemon Hill.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Lemon Hill, the average cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 3.1-kW system would cost about $5,886 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Lemon Hill based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average Lemon Hill homeowners see about $25,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Lemon Hill, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Lemon Hill

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-4,900
3 years $-2,912
5 years $-925
7 years $1,063
9 years $3,050
11 years $5,038
13 years $7,025
15 years $9,013
17 years $11,000
19 years $12,987
21 years $14,975
23 years $16,962
25 years $18,950

Top Solar Installers in Lemon Hill

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Lemon Hill

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lemon Hill

While the average cost of a solar system in Lemon Hill is $5,886, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Lemon Hill average.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Lemon Hill to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Lemon Hill, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Lemon Hill know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.

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 $28,112 7.4 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $37,789 7.3 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $47,618 7.2 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $57,601 7.0 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $67,736 6.9 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $78,024 6.7 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $88,465 6.6 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $99,059 6.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many companies available in Lemon Hill, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Contract: When reading through your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer 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: Each company may offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Lemon Hill, CA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lemon Hill?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Is going solar worth it?

Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.

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