Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lompoc, CA (2023 Update)
- Lompoc Solar Installation Cost: $5,378
- 25-Year Savings: $17,211
- Payback Period: 6.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lompoc
We break down average solar pricing in Lompoc.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Lompoc it's 2.73 per watt. The average Lompoc homeowner needs a 2.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,370 with the federal tax credit, or $7,679 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of going solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $31,000 over 20 years on power bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Lompoc for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Lompoc
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,303 |
| 3 years | $-5,152 |
| 5 years | $-5,002 |
| 7 years | $-4,851 |
| 9 years | $-4,700 |
| 11 years | $-4,550 |
| 13 years | $-4,399 |
| 15 years | $-4,249 |
| 17 years | $-4,098 |
| 19 years | $-3,947 |
| 21 years | $-3,797 |
| 23 years | $-3,646 |
| 25 years | $-3,496 |
Top Solar Installers in Lompoc
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Lompoc, the EcoWatch team has compiled 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
See all of the solar companies in Lompoc
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lompoc
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Lompoc is $5,370, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Lompoc, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Lompoc have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Lompoc, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $36,235 | 6.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $48,620 | 6.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $61,157 | 6.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $73,847 | 5.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $86,690 | 5.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $99,685 | 5.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $112,834 | 5.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $126,135 | 5.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can verify your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you want plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Lompoc, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lompoc?
This is a difficult 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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Lompoc?
Solar panels aren't free in Lompoc, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, 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 Lompoc 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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.