Solar Panel Cost Guide in Squaw Valley, CA (2023 Update)
- Squaw Valley Solar Installation Cost: $5,692
- 25-Year Savings: $20,639
- Payback Period: 5.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Squaw Valley
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Squaw Valley.
In Squaw Valley, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Squaw Valley, most homeowners require a 3.0-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $5,695, or $8,144 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Squaw Valley homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With typical savings of about $34,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Squaw Valley find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
To receive a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Squaw Valley, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Squaw Valley
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,154 |
| 3 years | $-1,078 |
| 5 years | $1,998 |
| 7 years | $5,074 |
| 9 years | $8,150 |
| 11 years | $11,225 |
| 13 years | $14,301 |
| 15 years | $17,377 |
| 17 years | $20,453 |
| 19 years | $23,529 |
| 21 years | $26,604 |
| 23 years | $29,680 |
| 25 years | $32,756 |
Top Solar Installers in Squaw Valley
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Squaw Valley
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Squaw Valley
Although the average cost of a solar system in Squaw Valley is $5,695, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,730. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Squaw Valley to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest. 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 the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Squaw Valley, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Squaw Valley know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: When looking through your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you'd like to get plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
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 Squaw Valley, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Squaw Valley?
The average cost of solar panels in Squaw Valley 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 stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Squaw Valley?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property 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.
Do solar panels increase your property value?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Squaw Valley is currently $177,093, which means you can look forward to a value of about $7,261 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Squaw Valley is a worthwhile investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.