Solar Panel Cost Guide in Linda, CA (2023 Update)
- Linda Solar Installation Cost: $5,962
- 25-Year Savings: $20,369
- Payback Period: 5.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Linda
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Linda.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Linda typically cost about 2.73. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Linda, most homeowners require a 3.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $5,962, or $8,526 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will most likely differ based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $32,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Linda
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,909 |
| 3 years | $-2,803 |
| 5 years | $-696 |
| 7 years | $1,410 |
| 9 years | $3,517 |
| 11 years | $5,623 |
| 13 years | $7,730 |
| 15 years | $9,836 |
| 17 years | $11,943 |
| 19 years | $14,049 |
| 21 years | $16,156 |
| 23 years | $18,262 |
| 25 years | $20,369 |
Top Solar Installers in Linda
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since installing solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. Plus, if you're not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 Linda
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Linda
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Linda: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,730. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Linda homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Linda is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and better 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 down 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 | $38,775 | 5.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,006 | 5.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $65,389 | 5.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $78,926 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $92,615 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $106,458 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $120,453 | 5.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $134,601 | 5.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
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 Linda, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Linda?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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 higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Linda have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Linda?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.