Solar Panel Cost Guide in Los Banos, CA (2023 Update)
- Los Banos Solar Installation Cost: $5,662
- 25-Year Savings: $20,669
- Payback Period: 5.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Los Banos
We break down average solar pricing in Los Banos.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Los Banos generally cost around 2.73. The average Los Banos homeowner needs a 3.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,657 with the federal tax credit, or $8,090 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Los Banos can save about $34,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in Los Banos for a personalized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Los Banos
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,575 |
| 3 years | $-5,399 |
| 5 years | $-5,224 |
| 7 years | $-5,048 |
| 9 years | $-4,872 |
| 11 years | $-4,697 |
| 13 years | $-4,521 |
| 15 years | $-4,346 |
| 17 years | $-4,170 |
| 19 years | $-3,995 |
| 21 years | $-3,819 |
| 23 years | $-3,644 |
| 25 years | $-3,468 |
Top Solar Installers in Los Banos
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. Hiring an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Los Banos
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Los Banos
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Los Banos: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,730 per kilowatt in Los Banos. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will greatly influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Moreover, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to think 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 looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Los Banos homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Los Banos is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. Additionally, some companies in Los Banos 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 | $41,394 | 5.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $55,498 | 5.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $69,754 | 5.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $84,164 | 5.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $98,726 | 5.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $113,441 | 5.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $128,309 | 4.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $143,330 | 4.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Los Banos, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years 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 quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Los Banos, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Los Banos?
This is a tough 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 higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Los Banos?
A solar panel system isn't free in Los Banos, 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 can help lower the cost.
How will installing solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't opt for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.