Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hidden Valley Lake, CA (2024 Update)
- Hidden Valley Lake Solar Installation Cost: $7,436
- 25-Year Savings: $20,481
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hidden Valley Lake
We break down average solar pricing in Hidden Valley Lake.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Hidden Valley Lake, the average cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.The average Hidden Valley Lake homeowner needs a 3.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $7,436 with the federal tax credit, or $10,633 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely look different based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with.Even with the large initial cost, the average Hidden Valley Lake homeowner can save around $33,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hidden Valley Lake
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,898 |
| 3 years | $-2,823 |
| 5 years | $253 |
| 7 years | $3,329 |
| 9 years | $6,405 |
| 11 years | $9,481 |
| 13 years | $12,556 |
| 15 years | $15,632 |
| 17 years | $18,708 |
| 19 years | $21,784 |
| 21 years | $24,860 |
| 23 years | $27,935 |
| 25 years | $31,011 |
Top Solar Installers in Hidden Valley Lake
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Hidden Valley Lake, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Hidden Valley Lake
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hidden Valley Lake
For many Hidden Valley Lake homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Hidden Valley Lake, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production 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 $3,470.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Hidden Valley Lake homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can play a part in determining your pricing. Hidden Valley Lake’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $36,448 | 7.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $48,985 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $61,718 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $74,644 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $87,765 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $101,080 | 6.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $114,589 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $128,293 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will impact not only your total costs, but also the kinds 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, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
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 Hidden Valley Lake, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hidden Valley Lake?
The average cost of solar panels in Hidden Valley Lake 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 things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Hidden Valley Lake?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.