Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rollingwood, CA (2023 Update)
- Rollingwood Solar Installation Cost: $5,809
- 25-Year Savings: $20,522
- Payback Period: 5.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rollingwood
We go over average solar pricing in Rollingwood.
In Rollingwood, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Rollingwood is around 3.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,809 for a solar installation, or $8,307 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Rollingwood based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. With average savings of about $33,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Rollingwood find installing solar panels can be quite rewarding.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Rollingwood
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,756 |
| 3 years | $-2,650 |
| 5 years | $-543 |
| 7 years | $1,563 |
| 9 years | $3,670 |
| 11 years | $5,776 |
| 13 years | $7,883 |
| 15 years | $9,989 |
| 17 years | $12,096 |
| 19 years | $14,202 |
| 21 years | $16,309 |
| 23 years | $18,415 |
| 25 years | $20,522 |
Top Solar Installers in Rollingwood
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra energy and expertise. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your location and energy needs, but going with a solar installer can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Rollingwood
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rollingwood
While the average cost of a solar system in Rollingwood is $5,809, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,730. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Rollingwood, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Rollingwood to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Rollingwood, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is 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 | $39,971 | 5.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $53,600 | 5.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $67,382 | 5.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $81,317 | 5.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $95,405 | 5.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $109,646 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $124,039 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $138,586 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully 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 what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely 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 Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Rollingwood, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Rollingwood?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Rollingwood?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it usually 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 get the most savings.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,729.84 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Rollingwood?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use 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.