Solar Panel Cost Guide in Redlands, CA (2023 Update)

  • Redlands Solar Installation Cost: $5,486
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,283
  • Payback Period: 7.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Redlands

We go over average solar pricing in Redlands.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Redlands is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,485 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Redlands based on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Redlands can save around $25,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

To get a free quote from a top solar installer in Redlands, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Redlands

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-4,301
3 years $-1,932
5 years $438
7 years $2,807
9 years $5,177
11 years $7,546
13 years $9,916
15 years $12,285
17 years $14,655
19 years $17,024
21 years $19,394
23 years $21,763
25 years $24,133

Top Solar Installers in Redlands

When switching to solar energy, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.

If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Redlands:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Redlands

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Redlands

Though the average cost of a solar system in Redlands is $5,485, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In general, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you choose 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

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Redlands is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. Additionally, some companies in Redlands have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 $27,303 7.6 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $36,710 7.5 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $46,270 7.3 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $55,982 7.2 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $65,848 7.0 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $75,866 6.9 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $86,038 6.7 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $96,362 6.6 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you'd like to install plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
  • Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Redlands, CA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Redlands?

The average cost of solar panels in Redlands 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 type 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 crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

How will installing solar panels impact my home value?

Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Redlands is currently $354,669, so you can look forward to a value of about $14,541 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Redlands is a rewarding investment.

How long do solar panels last in Redlands?

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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had 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.

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