Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mead Valley, CA (2024 Update)
- Mead Valley Solar Installation Cost: $6,803
- 25-Year Savings: $22,815
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mead Valley
We go over average solar pricing in Mead Valley.
In Mead Valley, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.The average Mead Valley homeowner needs a 2.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $6,803 with the federal tax credit, or $9,728 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Mead Valley can save about $28,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Mead Valley for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Mead Valley
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,619 |
| 3 years | $-3,249 |
| 5 years | $-880 |
| 7 years | $1,490 |
| 9 years | $3,859 |
| 11 years | $6,229 |
| 13 years | $8,598 |
| 15 years | $10,968 |
| 17 years | $13,337 |
| 19 years | $15,707 |
| 21 years | $18,076 |
| 23 years | $20,446 |
| 25 years | $22,815 |
Top Solar Installers in Mead Valley
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra effort and knowledge. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren’t sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Mead Valley
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mead Valley
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Mead Valley is $6,803, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $3,470. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Mead Valley to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.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 reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Mead Valley, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — 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 fit into 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $29,162 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $39,271 | 8.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $49,574 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $60,072 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $70,764 | 7.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $81,651 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $92,731 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $104,006 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- 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 installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Mead Valley, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Mead Valley?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want 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 factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Mead Valley have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
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 average daily 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 get 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.