Solar Panel Cost Guide in Prunedale, CA (2024 Update)
- Prunedale Solar Installation Cost: $7,050
- 25-Year Savings: $31,398
- Payback Period: 6.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Prunedale
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Prunedale.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Prunedale it’s 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $7,050 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will vary based on your energy needs and what company you go with.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Prunedale homeowner can save around $34,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Prunedale that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Prunedale
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,512 |
| 3 years | $-2,436 |
| 5 years | $640 |
| 7 years | $3,715 |
| 9 years | $6,791 |
| 11 years | $9,867 |
| 13 years | $12,943 |
| 15 years | $16,019 |
| 17 years | $19,094 |
| 19 years | $22,170 |
| 21 years | $25,246 |
| 23 years | $28,322 |
| 25 years | $31,398 |
Top Solar Installers in Prunedale
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar company too, which can save you more money after your initial investment.
Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Prunedale
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Prunedale
Although the average cost of a solar system in Prunedale is $7,050, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation 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 $3,470.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Prunedale average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.It’s a good idea to factor 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 choose will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Prunedale have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $39,276 | 7.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $52,757 | 6.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $66,432 | 6.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $80,302 | 6.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $94,366 | 6.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $108,624 | 6.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $123,076 | 6.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $137,723 | 6.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can make 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Prunedale, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Prunedale?
The average cost of solar panels in Prunedale is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How will installing solar panels impact my property value?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Prunedale is currently $807,045, so you can expect a value of about $33,089 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Prunedale is a fruitful investment.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.