Solar Panel Cost Guide in San Joaquin, CA (2023 Update)
- San Joaquin Solar Installation Cost: $5,695
- 25-Year Savings: $20,636
- Payback Period: 5.4 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in San Joaquin
We go over average solar pricing in San Joaquin.
In San Joaquin, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 3.0-kW system would cost about $5,695 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in San Joaquin based on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Despite the significant initial cost, the average San Joaquin homeowner can save around $34,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installation company in San Joaquin, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in San Joaquin
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,642 |
| 3 years | $-2,535 |
| 5 years | $-429 |
| 7 years | $1,678 |
| 9 years | $3,784 |
| 11 years | $5,891 |
| 13 years | $7,997 |
| 15 years | $10,104 |
| 17 years | $12,210 |
| 19 years | $14,317 |
| 21 years | $16,423 |
| 23 years | $18,530 |
| 25 years | $20,636 |
Top Solar Installers in San Joaquin
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 San Joaquin
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in San Joaquin
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in San Joaquin: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher 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 several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many San Joaquin homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in San Joaquin, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $41,120 | 5.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $55,133 | 5.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $69,299 | 5.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $83,617 | 5.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $98,088 | 5.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $112,712 | 5.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $127,489 | 5.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $142,419 | 4.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in San Joaquin, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system's energy production.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have verifiable expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from past customers.
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 San Joaquin, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in San Joaquin?
The average cost of solar panels in San Joaquin 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.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key 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 be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout San Joaquin, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
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 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.