Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tustin, CA (2025 Update)
- Tustin Solar Installation Cost: $7,006
- 25-Year Savings: $13,257
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tustin
We go over average solar pricing in Tustin.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Tustin, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Since a 2.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Tustin, the average price of going solar will be about $7,006 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Tustin based on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar company in Tustin, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tustin
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,821 |
| 3 years | $-3,451 |
| 5 years | $-1,082 |
| 7 years | $1,288 |
| 9 years | $3,657 |
| 11 years | $6,027 |
| 13 years | $8,396 |
| 15 years | $10,766 |
| 17 years | $13,135 |
| 19 years | $15,505 |
| 21 years | $17,874 |
| 23 years | $20,244 |
| 25 years | $22,613 |
Top Solar Installers in Tustin
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Tustin:
See all of the solar companies in Tustin
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tustin
For many Tustin homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Tustin, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,470.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Tustin offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Tustin homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Tustin is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.Additionally, some companies in Tustin have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $23,888 | 9.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $32,239 | 9.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $40,785 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $49,525 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $58,459 | 9.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $67,588 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $76,911 | 8.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $86,428 | 8.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Long-standing 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.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
EcoWatch's Tustin, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Tustin?
The average cost of solar panels in Tustin is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the kind 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?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How will solar panels impact the value of my home?
Solar panels can increase your home value remarkably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily 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 buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.