Solar Panel Cost Guide in Delano, CA (2024 Update)

  • Delano Solar Installation Cost: $7,037
  • 25-Year Savings: $17,014
  • Payback Period: 7.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Delano

See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Delano.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Delano it’s 3 per watt.Because a 2.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Delano, the average price of going solar will be about $7,037 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

How much you pay can go above or below the average in Delano depending on a few factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $30,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Delano

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-5,617
3 years $-2,777
5 years $64
7 years $2,904
9 years $5,744
11 years $8,585
13 years $11,425
15 years $14,266
17 years $17,106
19 years $19,946
21 years $22,787
23 years $25,627
25 years $28,467

Top Solar Installers in Delano

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a challenging task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren’t sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.

If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:

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 Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Delano

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Delano

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Delano is $7,037, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production 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 $3,470.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Delano, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, 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

Most solar companies in Delano provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 original cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $3.61 $15,157 $31,544 8.1 years
8 kW $3.54 $19,821 $42,447 8.0 years
10 kW $3.47 $24,290 $53,544 7.8 years
12 kW $3.40 $28,565 $64,836 7.6 years
14 kW $3.33 $32,646 $76,322 7.5 years
16 kW $3.26 $36,532 $88,003 7.3 years
18 kW $3.19 $40,224 $99,877 7.2 years
20 kW $3.12 $43,722 $111,947 7.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of companies available in Delano, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.

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 Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Delano, CA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Delano?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Do solar panels increase your property value?

Solar panels can increase your property’s value remarkably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."

How long do solar panels last in Delano?

Though 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 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.

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