Solar Panel Cost Guide in Modesto, CA (2024 Update)
- Modesto Solar Installation Cost: $7,258
- 25-Year Savings: $20,102
- Payback Period: 7.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Modesto
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Modesto.
The average cost of solar panels in Modesto is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 3.0-kW system would cost about $7,258 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Modesto can save about $33,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in Modesto for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Modesto
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,945 |
| 3 years | $-3,320 |
| 5 years | $-695 |
| 7 years | $1,930 |
| 9 years | $4,556 |
| 11 years | $7,181 |
| 13 years | $9,806 |
| 15 years | $12,431 |
| 17 years | $15,056 |
| 19 years | $17,681 |
| 21 years | $20,307 |
| 23 years | $22,932 |
| 25 years | $25,557 |
Top Solar Installers in Modesto
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. Another advantage of working with a solar company is that they can help you optimize your ROI by cutting back on future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Modesto
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Modesto
The cost of installing a solar system in Modesto can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main 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.The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Modesto offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.It’s a good idea 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 the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Modesto, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Modesto know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $36,675 | 7.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $49,288 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $62,096 | 7.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $75,099 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $88,295 | 6.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $101,686 | 6.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $115,271 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $129,051 | 6.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar panel system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Modesto, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Modesto?
The average cost of solar panels in Modesto 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 stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Modesto?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because 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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Modesto?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get 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 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.