Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rohnert Park, CA (2023 Update)
- Rohnert Park Solar Installation Cost: $5,897
- 25-Year Savings: $20,434
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rohnert Park
See how much it might cost to go solar in Rohnert Park.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Rohnert Park generally cost around 2.73. The average Rohnert Park homeowner needs a 3.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,905 with the federal tax credit, or $8,444 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Rohnert Park can save around $32,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installer in Rohnert Park, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Rohnert Park
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,810 |
| 3 years | $-5,634 |
| 5 years | $-5,459 |
| 7 years | $-5,283 |
| 9 years | $-5,107 |
| 11 years | $-4,932 |
| 13 years | $-4,756 |
| 15 years | $-4,581 |
| 17 years | $-4,405 |
| 19 years | $-4,230 |
| 21 years | $-4,054 |
| 23 years | $-3,879 |
| 25 years | $-3,703 |
Top Solar Installers in Rohnert Park
When going solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your home.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers 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
See all of the solar companies in Rohnert Park
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rohnert Park
The cost of installing a solar system in Rohnert Park can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The largest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Rohnert Park, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fits 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 | $39,269 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,664 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,213 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $79,914 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $93,768 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $107,775 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $121,935 | 5.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $136,248 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Rohnert Park, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Rohnert Park?
The average cost of solar panels in Rohnert Park 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 certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places 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.
Does Rohnert Park have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Rohnert Park?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.