Solar Panel Cost Guide in Woodlake, CA (Mar 2023)
- Woodlake Solar Installation Cost: $5,657
- 25-Year Savings: $16,893
- Payback Period: 6.3 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Woodlake
We go over average solar pricing in Woodlake.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Woodlake generally cost around 2.73. Using this figure, a typical 3.0-kW system would cost about $5,657 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Woodlake depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Woodlake can save around $29,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Woodlake
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,755 |
| 3 years | $-2,951 |
| 5 years | $-1,147 |
| 7 years | $657 |
| 9 years | $2,461 |
| 11 years | $4,265 |
| 13 years | $6,069 |
| 15 years | $7,873 |
| 17 years | $9,677 |
| 19 years | $11,481 |
| 21 years | $13,285 |
| 23 years | $15,089 |
| 25 years | $16,893 |
Top Solar Installers in Woodlake
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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 Woodlake
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Woodlake
Though the average cost of a solar system in Woodlake is $5,657, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need 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. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Woodlake, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
Most solar companies in Woodlake offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Woodlake homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. 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 company you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Woodlake, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $33,803 | 6.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $45,377 | 6.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $57,103 | 6.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $68,983 | 6.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $81,015 | 6.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $93,200 | 5.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $105,538 | 5.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $118,029 | 5.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will affect not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have verifiable expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from past customers.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you hire.
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 Woodlake, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Woodlake?
The average cost of solar panels in Woodlake 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 things like 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 initial cost is a crucial 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Woodlake?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
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 stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce 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.