Solar Panel Cost Guide in Oakhurst, CA (2023 Update)
- Oakhurst Solar Installation Cost: $5,752
- 25-Year Savings: $20,579
- Payback Period: 5.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Oakhurst
We go over average solar pricing in Oakhurst.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Oakhurst it's 2.73 per watt. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Oakhurst, most homeowners require a 3.0-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $5,752, or $8,225 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Oakhurst depending on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Oakhurst see about $33,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Oakhurst that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Oakhurst
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,699 |
| 3 years | $-2,592 |
| 5 years | $-486 |
| 7 years | $1,621 |
| 9 years | $3,727 |
| 11 years | $5,834 |
| 13 years | $7,940 |
| 15 years | $10,046 |
| 17 years | $12,153 |
| 19 years | $14,259 |
| 21 years | $16,366 |
| 23 years | $18,472 |
| 25 years | $20,579 |
Top Solar Installers in Oakhurst
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Oakhurst
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Oakhurst
Though the average cost of a solar system in Oakhurst is $5,752, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar 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, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,730. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable option because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to add 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 how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Oakhurst, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — 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 go with the company that has 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $40,620 | 5.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $54,465 | 5.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $68,464 | 5.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $82,615 | 5.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $96,919 | 5.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $111,377 | 5.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $125,987 | 5.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $140,750 | 4.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
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 Oakhurst, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Oakhurst?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Oakhurst?
You can't get solar panels for free in Oakhurst. 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.
How will solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase your property's value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."
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 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.