Solar Panel Cost Guide in Encinitas, CA (2024 Update)
- Encinitas Solar Installation Cost: $6,837
- 25-Year Savings: $17,661
- Payback Period: 7.4 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Encinitas
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Encinitas.
The average cost of a solar system in Encinitas is 3 per watt.Because a 2.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Encinitas, the average price of going solar will be about $6,837 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Encinitas depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Encinitas can save about $31,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installation company in Encinitas, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Encinitas
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-5,178 |
3 years | $-1,860 |
5 years | $1,459 |
7 years | $4,777 |
9 years | $8,095 |
11 years | $11,413 |
13 years | $14,731 |
15 years | $18,050 |
17 years | $21,368 |
19 years | $24,686 |
21 years | $28,004 |
23 years | $31,322 |
25 years | $34,641 |
Top Solar Installers in Encinitas
Installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Because solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Encinitas, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 Encinitas
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Encinitas
While the average cost of a solar system in Encinitas is $6,837, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Encinitas average.
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 Encinitas homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Encinitas, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Encinitas know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $33,955 | 7.7 years |
8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $45,662 | 7.6 years |
10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $57,564 | 7.4 years |
12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $69,659 | 7.3 years |
14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $81,949 | 7.1 years |
16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $94,434 | 7.0 years |
18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $107,112 | 6.8 years |
20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $119,985 | 6.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Encinitas, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies 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 adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Contract: When reading 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.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Encinitas, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Encinitas?
The average cost of solar panels in Encinitas is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff 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?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Encinitas?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.