Solar Panel Cost Guide in Saranap, CA (2023 Update)
- Saranap Solar Installation Cost: $5,818
- 25-Year Savings: $20,513
- Payback Period: 5.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Saranap
We go over average solar pricing in Saranap.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Saranap, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 3.0-kW system would cost about $5,809 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Saranap depending on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Saranap can save around $33,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in Saranap for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Saranap
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,730 |
| 3 years | $-5,554 |
| 5 years | $-5,379 |
| 7 years | $-5,203 |
| 9 years | $-5,028 |
| 11 years | $-4,852 |
| 13 years | $-4,677 |
| 15 years | $-4,501 |
| 17 years | $-4,326 |
| 19 years | $-4,150 |
| 21 years | $-3,975 |
| 23 years | $-3,799 |
| 25 years | $-3,623 |
Top Solar Installers in Saranap
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and bring down the cost of maintenance over the lifespan of your panels.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Saranap:
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 Saranap
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Saranap
The cost of installing a solar system in Saranap can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by 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
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $2,730. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install 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
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can impact how much it costs. Saranap's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to greater 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 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 | $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 company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
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 Saranap, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Saranap?
The average cost of solar panels in Saranap 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 stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Saranap?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure 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 financial benefits from going solar.
How will having solar panels impact my property value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
How long do solar panels last in Saranap?
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 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.