Solar Panel Cost Guide in Escalon, CA (2024 Update)
- Escalon Solar Installation Cost: $7,350
- 25-Year Savings: $20,457
- Payback Period: 7.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Escalon
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Escalon.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Escalon, the average cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.Because a 3.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Escalon, the average price of going solar will be about $7,350 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you want to go with.With average savings of about $33,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Escalon find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Escalon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,812 |
| 3 years | $-2,737 |
| 5 years | $339 |
| 7 years | $3,415 |
| 9 years | $6,491 |
| 11 years | $9,567 |
| 13 years | $12,642 |
| 15 years | $15,718 |
| 17 years | $18,794 |
| 19 years | $21,870 |
| 21 years | $24,946 |
| 23 years | $28,021 |
| 25 years | $31,097 |
Top Solar Installers in Escalon
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. Some solar installers, especially local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Escalon, thereby optimizing your ROI.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Escalon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Escalon
Although the average cost of a solar system in Escalon is $7,350, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,470. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Escalon provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Escalon homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you choose will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $36,871 | 7.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $49,550 | 7.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $62,424 | 7.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $75,491 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $88,753 | 6.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $102,210 | 6.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $115,861 | 6.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $129,706 | 6.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar energy system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
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 Escalon, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Escalon?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Escalon?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Escalon?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels do I need to power 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 install 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.