Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ukiah, CA (2024 Update)
- Ukiah Solar Installation Cost: $7,560
- 25-Year Savings: $18,250
- Payback Period: 7.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ukiah
We go over average solar pricing in Ukiah.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Ukiah typically cost about 3.The average solar panel system size in Ukiah is around 3.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $7,560 for a solar installation, or $10,811 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Ukiah based on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $30,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ukiah
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-6,022 |
| 3 years | $-2,946 |
| 5 years | $130 |
| 7 years | $3,206 |
| 9 years | $6,282 |
| 11 years | $9,357 |
| 13 years | $12,433 |
| 15 years | $15,509 |
| 17 years | $18,585 |
| 19 years | $21,661 |
| 21 years | $24,736 |
| 23 years | $27,812 |
| 25 years | $30,888 |
Top Solar Installers in Ukiah
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Ukiah
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ukiah
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Ukiah: 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 typical energy use.The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Ukiah average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Ukiah homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have greater resources and better 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 promotion 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $31,493 | 8.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $42,380 | 8.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $53,461 | 7.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $64,736 | 7.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $76,205 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $87,869 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $99,727 | 7.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $111,779 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good 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: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Ukiah, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ukiah?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Ukiah?
Solar panels aren’t free in Ukiah, 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 further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Ukiah, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Ukiah?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.