Solar Panel Cost Guide in San Marino, CA (2023 Update)
- San Marino Solar Installation Cost: $5,444
- 25-Year Savings: $15,959
- Payback Period: 6.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in San Marino
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in San Marino.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in San Marino it's 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in San Marino is around 2.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,446 for a solar installation, or $7,788 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average San Marino homeowners see about $29,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in San Marino for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in San Marino
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,373 |
| 3 years | $-5,230 |
| 5 years | $-5,088 |
| 7 years | $-4,945 |
| 9 years | $-4,802 |
| 11 years | $-4,660 |
| 13 years | $-4,517 |
| 15 years | $-4,374 |
| 17 years | $-4,232 |
| 19 years | $-4,089 |
| 21 years | $-3,946 |
| 23 years | $-3,804 |
| 25 years | $-3,661 |
Top Solar Installers in San Marino
Many homeowners choose to use a solar panel company since installing solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
If you're looking for a solar company in San Marino, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Marino
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in San Marino
There are a number of criteria that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in San Marino, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like San Marino, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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 solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable option 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. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a part in determining your pricing. San Marino's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to more resources and better 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 promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $33,150 | 6.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $44,506 | 6.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $56,015 | 6.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $67,677 | 6.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $79,491 | 6.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $91,459 | 6.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $103,579 | 5.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $115,852 | 5.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before making your decision.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
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 Marino, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in San Marino?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in San Marino?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Does San Marino 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 utility bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.