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.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Marina del Rey typically cost around 3.The average solar panel system size in Marina del Rey is around 2.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $6,920 for a solar installation, or $9,896 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Marina del Rey depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $33,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted 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
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels yourself can be challenging. Plus, if you’re unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Marina del Rey
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Marina del Rey
Although the average cost of a solar system in Marina del Rey is $6,920, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Marina del Rey, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Marina del Rey provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Marina del Rey, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.
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
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, 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: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Reputation: Solar system installers 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 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 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 real cost will depend on things such as the type 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 attractive choice, because it usually 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get 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 take a 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 buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.