Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mentone, CA (2023 Update)
- Mentone Solar Installation Cost: $5,486
- 25-Year Savings: $13,283
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mentone
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Mentone.
In Mentone, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,485 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Mentone based on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar company in Mentone, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Mentone
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,423 |
| 3 years | $-5,298 |
| 5 years | $-5,173 |
| 7 years | $-5,048 |
| 9 years | $-4,923 |
| 11 years | $-4,798 |
| 13 years | $-4,673 |
| 15 years | $-4,548 |
| 17 years | $-4,423 |
| 19 years | $-4,297 |
| 21 years | $-4,172 |
| 23 years | $-4,047 |
| 25 years | $-3,922 |
Top Solar Installers in Mentone
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar 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 Mentone
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mentone
Though the average cost of a solar system in Mentone is $5,485, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant 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 determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's crucial to accurately gauge 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 higher efficiency. In a city like Mentone, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Mentone to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Mentone, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger 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 | $27,303 | 7.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $36,710 | 7.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $46,270 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $55,982 | 7.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $65,848 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $75,866 | 6.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $86,038 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $96,362 | 6.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Mentone, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want to get plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
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 Mentone, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mentone?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Mentone?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Mentone?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 buy 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.