Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pasadena, CA (2023 Update)
- Pasadena Solar Installation Cost: $5,446
- 25-Year Savings: $16,911
- Payback Period: 6.1 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pasadena
We break down average solar pricing in Pasadena.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Pasadena it's 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Pasadena is around 2.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,446 for a solar installation, or $7,788 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely differ based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Pasadena see about $30,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installer in Pasadena, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Pasadena
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,552 |
| 3 years | $-2,763 |
| 5 years | $-975 |
| 7 years | $814 |
| 9 years | $2,602 |
| 11 years | $4,391 |
| 13 years | $6,180 |
| 15 years | $7,968 |
| 17 years | $9,757 |
| 19 years | $11,545 |
| 21 years | $13,334 |
| 23 years | $15,123 |
| 25 years | $16,911 |
Top Solar Installers in Pasadena
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra effort and expertise. For that reason, most people choose a solar panel installer. Because solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
Working with a licensed solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Pasadena
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pasadena
For many Pasadena homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Pasadena, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production 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. The kind of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will largely affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to think 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 researching a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular option because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Pasadena, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. 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 | $35,159 | 6.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $47,185 | 6.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $59,364 | 6.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $71,695 | 6.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $84,179 | 5.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $96,816 | 5.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $109,606 | 5.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $122,549 | 5.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will affect not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Pasadena, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Pasadena?
The average cost of solar panels in Pasadena is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Pasadena?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
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.