Solar Panel Cost Guide in Laguna Beach, FL (2023 Update)

  • Laguna Beach Solar Installation Cost: $10,123
  • 25-Year Savings: $22,657
  • Payback Period: 7.7 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 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 Laguna Beach

Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Laguna Beach.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Laguna Beach is 2.53 per watt. The average Laguna Beach homeowner needs a 5.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $10,130 with the federal tax credit, or $14,486 before the 30% tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Laguna Beach homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With average savings of about $22,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Laguna Beach find going solar has a decent ROI.

You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Laguna Beach for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Laguna Beach

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-10,014
3 years $-9,795
5 years $-9,577
7 years $-9,358
9 years $-9,140
11 years $-8,921
13 years $-8,703
15 years $-8,484
17 years $-8,266
19 years $-8,047
21 years $-7,829
23 years $-7,610
25 years $-7,391

Top Solar Installers in Laguna Beach

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar installers provide can be helpful as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.

If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Laguna Beach:

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

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

See all of the solar companies in Laguna Beach

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Laguna Beach

For many Laguna Beach homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Laguna Beach, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation require 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 $2,530. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Laguna Beach, where sunlight is 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

Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Laguna Beach homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration 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

A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Laguna Beach is the company you get to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. Additionally, some companies in Laguna Beach are more knowledgeable 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 help you save 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 $2.63 $11,051 $23,357 8.0 years
8 kW $2.58 $14,451 $31,427 7.9 years
10 kW $2.53 $17,710 $39,638 7.7 years
12 kW $2.48 $20,827 $47,990 7.6 years
14 kW $2.43 $23,802 $56,484 7.4 years
16 kW $2.38 $26,636 $65,120 7.3 years
18 kW $2.33 $29,328 $73,898 7.1 years
20 kW $2.28 $31,878 $82,817 6.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, such as:

  • Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Contract: When looking through your solar installer'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 if the company goes out of business.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

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

EcoWatch's Laguna Beach, FL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Laguna Beach?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,650 for a 5-kW system and $25,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Laguna Beach?

Solar panels aren't free in Laguna Beach, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.

Is it worth going solar in Laguna Beach?

Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.

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

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.

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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