Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rialto, CA (Mar 2023)
- Rialto Solar Installation Cost: $5,485
- 25-Year Savings: $14,364
- Payback Period: 6.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rialto
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Rialto.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Rialto, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. The average Rialto homeowner needs a 2.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,485 with the federal tax credit, or $7,844 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs may look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $26,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Rialto for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Rialto
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,691 |
| 3 years | $-3,103 |
| 5 years | $-1,515 |
| 7 years | $73 |
| 9 years | $1,661 |
| 11 years | $3,249 |
| 13 years | $4,837 |
| 15 years | $6,425 |
| 17 years | $8,013 |
| 19 years | $9,601 |
| 21 years | $11,189 |
| 23 years | $12,777 |
| 25 years | $14,364 |
Top Solar Installers in Rialto
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra time and knowledge. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Rialto, 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 Rialto
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rialto
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Rialto: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation use 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. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Rialto, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid choice because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will influence your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $29,560 | 7.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $39,719 | 7.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $50,031 | 6.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $60,496 | 6.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $71,114 | 6.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $81,885 | 6.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $92,808 | 6.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $103,884 | 6.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Rialto, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: When looking through your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar panel system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Rialto, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Rialto?
The average cost of solar panels in Rialto 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 things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Rialto?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Is making the switch to 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 home 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.