Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ojai, CA (2023 Update)
- Ojai Solar Installation Cost: $5,474
- 25-Year Savings: $13,295
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ojai
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Ojai.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Ojai generally cost around 2.73. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,465 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you will most likely differ based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. Despite the significant initial cost, the average Ojai homeowner can save about $25,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ojai
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,289 |
| 3 years | $-1,920 |
| 5 years | $450 |
| 7 years | $2,819 |
| 9 years | $5,189 |
| 11 years | $7,558 |
| 13 years | $9,928 |
| 15 years | $12,297 |
| 17 years | $14,667 |
| 19 years | $17,036 |
| 21 years | $19,406 |
| 23 years | $21,775 |
| 25 years | $24,145 |
Top Solar Installers in Ojai
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra effort and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your home.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Ojai
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ojai
Although the average cost of a solar system in Ojai is $5,465, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential 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 notable 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 raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In general, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. 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
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Ojai homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panels can impact how much you pay. Ojai's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Ojai have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $27,391 | 7.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $36,827 | 7.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $46,416 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $56,157 | 7.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $66,052 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $76,100 | 6.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $86,300 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $96,653 | 6.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will be a major factor in determining 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 some important things you should take into account, such as:
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar energy system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
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 Ojai, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ojai?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,310.51 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.