Solar Panel Cost Guide in Walnut Creek, CA (2023 Update)
- Walnut Creek Solar Installation Cost: $5,809
- 25-Year Savings: $20,522
- Payback Period: 5.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Walnut Creek
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Walnut Creek.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Walnut Creek, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Walnut Creek is around 3.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,809 for a solar installation, or $8,307 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Walnut Creek based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Even with the significant initial cost, the average Walnut Creek homeowner can save around $33,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in Walnut Creek for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Walnut Creek
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,756 |
| 3 years | $-2,650 |
| 5 years | $-543 |
| 7 years | $1,563 |
| 9 years | $3,670 |
| 11 years | $5,776 |
| 13 years | $7,883 |
| 15 years | $9,989 |
| 17 years | $12,096 |
| 19 years | $14,202 |
| 21 years | $16,309 |
| 23 years | $18,415 |
| 25 years | $20,522 |
Top Solar Installers in Walnut Creek
When going solar, many homeowners opt to go with a solar installation company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. The expertise that solar companies offer can be helpful as well, particularly if you don't quite know what brand of solar equipment you need.
Working with a licensed solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 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 Walnut Creek
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Walnut Creek
While the average cost of a solar system in Walnut Creek is $5,809, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation use 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 $2,730. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Walnut Creek, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Walnut Creek to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Walnut Creek, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $39,971 | 5.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $53,600 | 5.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $67,382 | 5.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $81,317 | 5.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $95,405 | 5.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $109,646 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $124,039 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $138,586 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Walnut Creek, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
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 Walnut Creek, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Walnut Creek?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Walnut Creek?
You can't get solar panels for free in Walnut Creek. 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.
Is going solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Walnut Creek?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can 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.