Solar Panel Cost Guide in Valley Springs, CA (Mar 2023)

  • Valley Springs Solar Installation Cost: $5,829
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,412
  • Payback Period: 5.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated March 14, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Valley Springs

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Valley Springs.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Valley Springs typically cost around 2.73. The average solar panel system size in Valley Springs is around 3.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,829 for a solar installation, or $8,335 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Valley Springs based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Valley Springs can save around $33,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Valley Springs, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Valley Springs

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-4,779
3 years $-2,680
5 years $-580
7 years $1,519
9 years $3,618
11 years $5,717
13 years $7,816
15 years $9,916
17 years $12,015
19 years $14,114
21 years $16,213
23 years $18,312
25 years $20,412

Top Solar Installers in Valley Springs

Installing solar panels on your own can be a stressful project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.

Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Valley Springs

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Valley Springs

Although the average cost of a solar system in Valley Springs is $5,829, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Valley Springs average.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Valley Springs to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time because of interest. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of 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 getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installation company you choose will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Valley Springs have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 $2.84 $11,925 $39,642 5.8 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $53,162 5.7 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $66,834 5.6 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $80,660 5.4 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $94,638 5.3 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $108,769 5.2 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $123,054 5.1 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $137,491 5.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many companies to choose from in Valley Springs, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
  • Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Valley Springs, CA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Valley Springs?

The average cost of solar panels in Valley Springs 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 stuff such as 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 Valley Springs?

A solar panel system isn't free in Valley Springs, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,718.89 per year.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs 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 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.

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