Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pasadena, MD (2023 Update)
- Pasadena Solar Installation Cost: $10,354
- 25-Year Savings: $10,540
- Payback Period: 12.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pasadena
We go over average solar pricing in Pasadena.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Pasadena, the average cost of a solar system is 2.77 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.3-kW system would cost about $10,354 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. With average savings of about $15,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Pasadena find investing in solar can pay off big.
To get a free quote from a top solar installer in Pasadena, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Pasadena
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,518 |
| 3 years | $-7,847 |
| 5 years | $-6,175 |
| 7 years | $-4,504 |
| 9 years | $-2,832 |
| 11 years | $-1,161 |
| 13 years | $511 |
| 15 years | $2,182 |
| 17 years | $3,854 |
| 19 years | $5,525 |
| 21 years | $7,197 |
| 23 years | $8,868 |
| 25 years | $10,540 |
Top Solar Installers in Pasadena
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar companies offer can be useful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what type of solar equipment you need.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Pasadena
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pasadena
There are several criteria that can determine your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need 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 $2,770. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Pasadena, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular option because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to green energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Pasadena, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.88 | $12,099 | $11,357 | 12.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $15,453 | 12.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $19,704 | 12.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $24,110 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $28,671 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $33,387 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $38,259 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $43,285 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Pasadena, MD Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Pasadena?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $781.87 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses 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 home 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.