Solar Panel Cost Guide in Redding, CT (Feb 2023)
- Redding Solar Installation Cost: $8,781
- 25-Year Savings: $20,466
- Payback Period: 7.5 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Redding
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Redding.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Redding, the typical cost of a solar system is $3 per watt. Since a 4.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Redding, the average price of going solar will be about $8,781 before claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs may vary based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with. Despite the high upfront cost, the average Redding homeowner can save around $25,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Redding that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Redding
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,611 |
| 3 years | $-5,271 |
| 5 years | $-2,932 |
| 7 years | $-592 |
| 9 years | $1,748 |
| 11 years | $4,088 |
| 13 years | $6,427 |
| 15 years | $8,767 |
| 17 years | $11,107 |
| 19 years | $13,447 |
| 21 years | $15,786 |
| 23 years | $18,126 |
| 25 years | $20,466 |
Top Solar Installers in Redding
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra energy and knowledge. For that reason, most people choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Redding, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Redding
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Redding
Although the average cost of a solar system in Redding is $8,781, your actual cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different 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 raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,800. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Redding, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a solid choice because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Redding, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, 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 | $2.91 | $12,230 | $26,975 | 7.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $36,280 | 7.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $45,742 | 7.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $55,361 | 7.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $65,137 | 7.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $75,070 | 7.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $85,159 | 6.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $95,405 | 6.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Contract: When reading over your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from past customers.
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 Redding, CT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Redding?
The average cost of solar panels in Redding is about $14,000 for a 5-kW system and $28,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,306.85 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Redding?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger 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.