Solar Panel Cost Guide in Torrance, CA (2023 Update)
- Torrance Solar Installation Cost: $5,446
- 25-Year Savings: $13,652
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Torrance
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Torrance.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Torrance it's 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,446 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Torrance
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,682 |
| 3 years | $-3,155 |
| 5 years | $-1,627 |
| 7 years | $-99 |
| 9 years | $1,429 |
| 11 years | $2,957 |
| 13 years | $4,485 |
| 15 years | $6,013 |
| 17 years | $7,541 |
| 19 years | $9,069 |
| 21 years | $10,596 |
| 23 years | $12,124 |
| 25 years | $13,652 |
Top Solar Installers in Torrance
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar company as well, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Torrance
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Torrance
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Torrance: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Torrance, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Torrance, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to green energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Torrance, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to more resources and bulk 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 discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $28,296 | 7.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $38,034 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $47,925 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $57,968 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $68,165 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $78,514 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $89,016 | 6.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $99,671 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you'd like to get plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Torrance, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Torrance?
The average cost of solar panels in Torrance 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 certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Torrance?
You can't get solar panels for free in Torrance. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Torrance have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.