Solar Panel Cost Guide in San Juan Capistrano, CA (2023 Update)
- San Juan Capistrano Solar Installation Cost: $5,512
- 25-Year Savings: $15,820
- Payback Period: 6.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in San Juan Capistrano
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in San Juan Capistrano.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in San Juan Capistrano typically cost about 2.73. The average San Juan Capistrano homeowner needs a 2.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,504 with the federal tax credit, or $7,871 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of San Juan Capistrano homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in San Juan Capistrano can save about $28,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in San Juan Capistrano for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in San Juan Capistrano
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,441 |
| 3 years | $-5,298 |
| 5 years | $-5,156 |
| 7 years | $-5,014 |
| 9 years | $-4,872 |
| 11 years | $-4,729 |
| 13 years | $-4,587 |
| 15 years | $-4,445 |
| 17 years | $-4,303 |
| 19 years | $-4,161 |
| 21 years | $-4,018 |
| 23 years | $-3,876 |
| 25 years | $-3,734 |
Top Solar Installers in San Juan Capistrano
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra energy and knowledge. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in San Juan Capistrano, 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
See all of the solar companies in San Juan Capistrano
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in San Juan Capistrano
The cost of installing a solar system in San Juan Capistrano can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in San Juan Capistrano, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in San Juan Capistrano, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in San Juan Capistrano, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $32,451 | 6.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $43,574 | 6.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $54,850 | 6.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $66,278 | 6.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $77,860 | 6.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $89,594 | 6.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $101,481 | 5.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $113,521 | 5.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in San Juan Capistrano, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have verifiable expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from previous customers.
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 San Juan Capistrano, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in San Juan Capistrano?
The average cost of solar panels in San Juan Capistrano 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in San Juan Capistrano?
A solar panel system isn't free in San Juan Capistrano, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in San Juan Capistrano?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in San Juan Capistrano?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount 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.