Solar Panel Cost Guide in Taft, CA (2023 Update)
- Taft Solar Installation Cost: $5,542
- 25-Year Savings: $18,269
- Payback Period: 5.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Taft
We go over average solar pricing in Taft.
In Taft, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,542 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 exact cost of installing solar panels can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Even with the large initial cost, the average Taft homeowner can save around $31,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Taft
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,589 |
| 3 years | $-2,685 |
| 5 years | $-780 |
| 7 years | $1,125 |
| 9 years | $3,030 |
| 11 years | $4,935 |
| 13 years | $6,840 |
| 15 years | $8,744 |
| 17 years | $10,649 |
| 19 years | $12,554 |
| 21 years | $14,459 |
| 23 years | $16,364 |
| 25 years | $18,269 |
Top Solar Installers in Taft
Trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for you.
Working with a licensed solar installer 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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Taft
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Taft
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Taft: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Taft, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Taft, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Taft to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Taft, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies 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 with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fit into 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 | $37,386 | 6.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $50,154 | 5.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $63,074 | 5.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $76,148 | 5.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $89,374 | 5.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $102,754 | 5.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $116,286 | 5.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $129,971 | 5.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, including:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system's energy production.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer 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.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Taft, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Taft?
The average cost of solar panels in Taft 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 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 thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Taft?
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 long do solar panels last in Taft?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.