Solar Panel Cost Guide in West Modesto, CA (2023 Update)
- West Modesto Solar Installation Cost: $5,714
- 25-Year Savings: $19,558
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in West Modesto
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in West Modesto.
The average cost of a solar panel system in West Modesto is 2.73 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in West Modesto, most homeowners require a 3.0-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $5,714, or $8,171 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs will most likely differ based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. Despite the significant initial cost, the average West Modesto homeowner can save around $32,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in West Modesto
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,703 |
| 3 years | $-2,681 |
| 5 years | $-660 |
| 7 years | $1,362 |
| 9 years | $3,384 |
| 11 years | $5,406 |
| 13 years | $7,427 |
| 15 years | $9,449 |
| 17 years | $11,471 |
| 19 years | $13,492 |
| 21 years | $15,514 |
| 23 years | $17,536 |
| 25 years | $19,558 |
Top Solar Installers in West Modesto
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra energy and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term 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 panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 West Modesto
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in West Modesto
For many West Modesto homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in West Modesto, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in West Modesto, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. 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 in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the West Modesto average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many West Modesto homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panels can affect the cost. West Modesto's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $38,822 | 5.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,068 | 5.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $65,467 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $79,019 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $92,724 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $106,582 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $120,593 | 5.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $134,756 | 5.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 West Modesto, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in West Modesto?
The average cost of solar panels in West Modesto 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 certain factors 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 West Modesto?
Solar panels aren't free in West Modesto, 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.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to 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.