Solar Panel Cost Guide in Redding, CA (Mar 2023)
- Redding Solar Installation Cost: $6,096
- 25-Year Savings: $19,469
- Payback Period: 6.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Redding
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Redding.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Redding it's 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 3.2-kW system would cost about $6,096 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $30,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Redding
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,073 |
| 3 years | $-3,028 |
| 5 years | $-983 |
| 7 years | $1,062 |
| 9 years | $3,107 |
| 11 years | $5,153 |
| 13 years | $7,198 |
| 15 years | $9,243 |
| 17 years | $11,288 |
| 19 years | $13,334 |
| 21 years | $15,379 |
| 23 years | $17,424 |
| 25 years | $19,469 |
Top Solar Installers in Redding
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar installers offer can be helpful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some 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 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 Redding
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Redding
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Redding: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Redding, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Redding to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to higher prices over time due to interest. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's important to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Redding is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Redding are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $36,191 | 6.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $48,560 | 6.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $61,082 | 6.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $73,757 | 5.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $86,585 | 5.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $99,566 | 5.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $112,699 | 5.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $125,986 | 5.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you opt for.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Redding, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Redding?
The average cost of solar panels in Redding 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 consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Redding?
You can't get solar panels for free in Redding. 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.
Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?
Solar panels can increase your property's value considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't choose 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?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out 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.