Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lodi, CA (2023 Update)
- Lodi Solar Installation Cost: $5,790
- 25-Year Savings: $19,504
- Payback Period: 5.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lodi
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Lodi.
In Lodi, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. The average Lodi homeowner needs a 3.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,790 with the federal tax credit, or $8,280 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Lodi depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $32,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Lodi that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Lodi
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,779 |
| 3 years | $-2,755 |
| 5 years | $-732 |
| 7 years | $1,292 |
| 9 years | $3,316 |
| 11 years | $5,339 |
| 13 years | $7,363 |
| 15 years | $9,386 |
| 17 years | $11,410 |
| 19 years | $13,433 |
| 21 years | $15,457 |
| 23 years | $17,480 |
| 25 years | $19,504 |
Top Solar Installers in Lodi
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
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 Lodi
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lodi
For many Lodi homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Lodi, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Lodi, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Lodi, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Lodi, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $38,227 | 5.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $51,275 | 5.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $64,477 | 5.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $77,830 | 5.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $91,337 | 5.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $104,997 | 5.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $118,810 | 5.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $132,775 | 5.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you opt for.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 Lodi, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Lodi?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.