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

  • Ione Solar Installation Cost: $7,462
  • 25-Year Savings: $18,543
  • Payback Period: 7.6 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

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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 Ione

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Ione.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Ione, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Ione is around 3.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $7,462 for a solar installation, or $10,671 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Ione homeowner can save around $30,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.

You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Ione that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.

Solar savings over time in Ione

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-5,924
3 years $-2,849
5 years $227
7 years $3,303
9 years $6,379
11 years $9,455
13 years $12,530
15 years $15,606
17 years $18,682
19 years $21,758
21 years $24,834
23 years $27,909
25 years $30,985

Top Solar Installers in Ione

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Another upside of working with a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your return of investment by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.

You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

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 Ione

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ione

While the average cost of a solar system in Ione is $7,462, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,470.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Ione to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it’s vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can impact how much you pay. Ione’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger 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 $32,523 7.9 years
8 kW $3.54 $19,821 $43,753 7.8 years
10 kW $3.47 $24,290 $55,177 7.6 years
12 kW $3.40 $28,565 $66,795 7.5 years
14 kW $3.33 $32,646 $78,608 7.3 years
16 kW $3.26 $36,532 $90,615 7.2 years
18 kW $3.19 $40,224 $102,817 7.0 years
20 kW $3.12 $43,722 $115,212 6.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies to choose from in Ione, 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 will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Reputation: Well-established 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.

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 Ione, CA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ione?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Ione?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Ione. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Ione?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 household 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.

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