Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stanford, CA (2023 Update)
- Stanford Solar Installation Cost: $5,703
- 25-Year Savings: $18,816
- Payback Period: 5.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stanford
We go over average solar pricing in Stanford.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Stanford it's 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 3.0-kW system would cost about $5,695 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Stanford based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Stanford can save about $31,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Stanford that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Stanford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,621 |
| 3 years | $-5,458 |
| 5 years | $-5,294 |
| 7 years | $-5,131 |
| 9 years | $-4,967 |
| 11 years | $-4,804 |
| 13 years | $-4,640 |
| 15 years | $-4,477 |
| 17 years | $-4,313 |
| 19 years | $-4,150 |
| 21 years | $-3,987 |
| 23 years | $-3,823 |
| 25 years | $-3,660 |
Top Solar Installers in Stanford
Many homeowners decide to use a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be a lot of work. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for you.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Stanford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stanford
The cost of installing a solar system in Stanford can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,730. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Stanford, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Stanford, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $37,371 | 6.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $50,134 | 5.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $63,050 | 5.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $76,118 | 5.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $89,340 | 5.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $102,714 | 5.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $116,241 | 5.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $129,921 | 5.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
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 Stanford, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Stanford?
The average cost of solar panels in Stanford 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 things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Stanford?
Solar panels aren't free in Stanford, 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.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for 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 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.