Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pasadena, CA (2024 Update)
- Pasadena Solar Installation Cost: $6,920
- 25-Year Savings: $16,913
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pasadena
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Pasadena.
The average cost of solar panels in Pasadena is 3 per watt.Since a 2.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Pasadena, the average price of going solar will be about $6,920 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Pasadena can save around $30,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Pasadena
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-5,614 |
3 years | $-3,002 |
5 years | $-389 |
7 years | $2,224 |
9 years | $4,836 |
11 years | $7,449 |
13 years | $10,061 |
15 years | $12,674 |
17 years | $15,286 |
19 years | $17,899 |
21 years | $20,511 |
23 years | $23,124 |
25 years | $25,736 |
Top Solar Installers in Pasadena
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and lower the cost of maintenance over the lifespan of your panels.
If you're searching for a solar company in Pasadena, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Pasadena
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pasadena
Although the average cost of a solar system in Pasadena is $6,920, your final cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive 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. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Pasadena have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, 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 company you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Pasadena, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $31,927 | 8.0 years |
8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $42,958 | 7.9 years |
10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $54,184 | 7.7 years |
12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $65,603 | 7.6 years |
14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $77,217 | 7.4 years |
16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $89,025 | 7.3 years |
18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $101,028 | 7.1 years |
20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $113,225 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Pasadena, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Pasadena?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Pasadena?
Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for 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 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.