Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Richmond, CA (2023 Update)
- North Richmond Solar Installation Cost: $5,809
- 25-Year Savings: $20,522
- Payback Period: 5.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Richmond
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in North Richmond.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in North Richmond generally cost around 2.73. Because a 3.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in North Richmond, the average price of going solar will be about $5,809 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 Richmond depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Despite the high initial cost, the average North Richmond homeowner can save around $33,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Richmond
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,756 |
| 3 years | $-2,650 |
| 5 years | $-543 |
| 7 years | $1,563 |
| 9 years | $3,670 |
| 11 years | $5,776 |
| 13 years | $7,883 |
| 15 years | $9,989 |
| 17 years | $12,096 |
| 19 years | $14,202 |
| 21 years | $16,309 |
| 23 years | $18,415 |
| 25 years | $20,522 |
Top Solar Installers in North Richmond
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra labor and knowledge. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in North Richmond, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Richmond
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Richmond
For many North Richmond homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in North Richmond, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,730. The type of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will largely affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Plus, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in North Richmond, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in North Richmond is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. 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 at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also is within 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $39,971 | 5.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $53,600 | 5.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $67,382 | 5.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $81,317 | 5.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $95,405 | 5.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $109,646 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $124,039 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $138,586 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have different panels.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Richmond, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in North Richmond?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, 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 be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in North Richmond?
You can't get solar panels for free in North Richmond. 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in North Richmond?
Each state has some form 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 power bills.
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 goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.