Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Auburn, CA (2023 Update)
- North Auburn Solar Installation Cost: $5,905
- 25-Year Savings: $20,426
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Auburn
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in North Auburn.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in North Auburn, the average cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. Since a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in North Auburn, the average price of going solar will be about $5,905 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in North Auburn based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. With average savings of about $32,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in North Auburn find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installation company in North Auburn, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Auburn
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,852 |
| 3 years | $-2,745 |
| 5 years | $-639 |
| 7 years | $1,468 |
| 9 years | $3,574 |
| 11 years | $5,681 |
| 13 years | $7,787 |
| 15 years | $9,894 |
| 17 years | $12,000 |
| 19 years | $14,107 |
| 21 years | $16,213 |
| 23 years | $18,320 |
| 25 years | $20,426 |
Top Solar Installers in North Auburn
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra labor and handiness. For that reason, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't sure which solar installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in North Auburn:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in North Auburn
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Auburn
The cost of installing a solar system in North Auburn can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $2,730. The kind of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions 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 for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many North Auburn homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. While solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for North Auburn homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in North Auburn, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in North Auburn know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $39,146 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,500 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,007 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $79,667 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $93,480 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $107,446 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $121,565 | 5.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $135,836 | 5.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in North Auburn, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the durability of your solar energy system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's North Auburn, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Auburn?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in North Auburn?
You can't get solar panels for free in North Auburn. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in North Auburn?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.