Solar Panel Cost Guide in Palm Springs, CA (Jan 2023)
- Palm Springs Solar Installation Cost: $5,351
- 25-Year Savings: $14,118
- Payback Period: 6.9 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Palm Springs
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Palm Springs.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Palm Springs typically cost around $3. The average Palm Springs homeowner needs a 2.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,351, or $3,960 after the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $26,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in Palm Springs for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Palm Springs
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,572 |
| 3 years | $-3,015 |
| 5 years | $-1,457 |
| 7 years | $100 |
| 9 years | $1,658 |
| 11 years | $3,215 |
| 13 years | $4,773 |
| 15 years | $6,330 |
| 17 years | $7,888 |
| 19 years | $9,445 |
| 21 years | $11,003 |
| 23 years | $12,560 |
| 25 years | $14,118 |
Top Solar Installers in Palm Springs
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installation company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a difficult project. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Palm Springs, we've 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Palm Springs
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Palm Springs
There are a number of criteria that can play into your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation use 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. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Palm Springs, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Palm Springs offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Palm Springs, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $29,780 | 7.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $40,013 | 7.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $50,399 | 6.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $60,937 | 6.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $71,628 | 6.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $82,472 | 6.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $93,469 | 6.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $104,619 | 6.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Palm Springs, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Palm Springs?
The average cost of solar panels in Palm Springs is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Palm Springs?
You can't get solar panels for free in Palm Springs. 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 going solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you 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.