Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sonoma, CA (2024 Update)
- Sonoma Solar Installation Cost: $7,496
- 25-Year Savings: $20,434
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sonoma
See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Sonoma.
In Sonoma, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 3.1-kW system would cost about $7,496 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Sonoma homeowners. The cost 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 adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Sonoma can save around $32,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sonoma
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,958 |
| 3 years | $-2,882 |
| 5 years | $194 |
| 7 years | $3,269 |
| 9 years | $6,345 |
| 11 years | $9,421 |
| 13 years | $12,497 |
| 15 years | $15,573 |
| 17 years | $18,648 |
| 19 years | $21,724 |
| 21 years | $24,800 |
| 23 years | $27,876 |
| 25 years | $30,952 |
Top Solar Installers in Sonoma
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since installing solar panels on your own can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Plus, if you aren’t sure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Sonoma
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sonoma
For many Sonoma homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Sonoma, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Sonoma, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, 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
Most solar companies in Sonoma offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Sonoma is the company you hire to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.61 | $15,157 | $36,037 | 7.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $48,438 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $61,033 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $73,822 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $86,806 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $99,984 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $113,357 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $126,924 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, 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:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Sonoma, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sonoma?
The average cost of solar panels in Sonoma is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Sonoma, 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 contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.