Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mill Valley, CA (2024 Update)
- Mill Valley Solar Installation Cost: $7,653
- 25-Year Savings: $20,310
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mill Valley
We break down average solar pricing in Mill Valley.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Mill Valley typically cost about 3.Since a 3.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Mill Valley, the average price of going solar will be about $7,653 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Mill Valley homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Mill Valley can save about $32,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Mill Valley for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Mill Valley
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-6,115 |
| 3 years | $-3,039 |
| 5 years | $37 |
| 7 years | $3,113 |
| 9 years | $6,188 |
| 11 years | $9,264 |
| 13 years | $12,340 |
| 15 years | $15,416 |
| 17 years | $18,492 |
| 19 years | $21,567 |
| 21 years | $24,643 |
| 23 years | $27,719 |
| 25 years | $30,795 |
Top Solar Installers in Mill Valley
Many homeowners choose to hire a solar installer since trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a lot of work. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy use, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Mill Valley
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mill Valley
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Mill Valley is $7,653, 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 solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,470.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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 more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Mill Valley, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $34,988 | 7.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $47,039 | 7.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $59,285 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $71,724 | 7.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $84,359 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $97,187 | 6.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $110,210 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $123,427 | 6.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will impact not only your overall costs, but also the types 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 keep in mind, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before making your decision.
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 Mill Valley, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mill Valley?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Mill Valley?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Mill Valley. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Mill Valley?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation 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 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.