Solar Panel Cost Guide in Marina del Rey, CA (2024 Update)
- Marina del Rey Solar Installation Cost: $6,920
- 25-Year Savings: $18,924
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Marina del Rey
We go over average solar pricing in Marina del Rey.
In Marina del Rey, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 2.8-kW system would cost about $6,920 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more.Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Marina del Rey homeowner can save about $33,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installer in Marina del Rey, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Marina del Rey
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,578 |
| 3 years | $-2,894 |
| 5 years | $-210 |
| 7 years | $2,474 |
| 9 years | $5,158 |
| 11 years | $7,842 |
| 13 years | $10,526 |
| 15 years | $13,211 |
| 17 years | $15,895 |
| 19 years | $18,579 |
| 21 years | $21,263 |
| 23 years | $23,947 |
| 25 years | $26,631 |
Top Solar Installers in Marina del Rey
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you’re unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Marina del Rey
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Marina del Rey
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Marina del Rey: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater 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.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Marina del Rey, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Marina del Rey, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It’s wise to include 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 how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can impact the cost. Marina del Rey’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of 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 larger 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 | $36,162 | 7.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $48,605 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $61,242 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $74,073 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $87,099 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $100,319 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $113,733 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $127,342 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power 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.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Marina del Rey, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Marina del Rey?
The average cost of solar panels in Marina del Rey 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 like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Marina del Rey?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.