Solar Panel Cost Guide in Running Springs, CA (2024 Update)
- Running Springs Solar Installation Cost: $6,973
- 25-Year Savings: $13,283
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Running Springs
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Running Springs.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Running Springs it’s 3 per watt.Since a 2.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Running Springs, the average price of going solar will be about $6,973 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are only estimates, and how much solar costs for you may vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Despite the high upfront cost, the average Running Springs homeowner can save about $25,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Running Springs
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,788 |
| 3 years | $-3,419 |
| 5 years | $-1,049 |
| 7 years | $1,320 |
| 9 years | $3,690 |
| 11 years | $6,059 |
| 13 years | $8,429 |
| 15 years | $10,798 |
| 17 years | $13,168 |
| 19 years | $15,537 |
| 21 years | $17,907 |
| 23 years | $20,276 |
| 25 years | $22,646 |
Top Solar Installers in Running Springs
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your location and energy use, but working with a solar installer can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. 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 Running Springs
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Running Springs
For many Running Springs homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Running Springs, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Running Springs, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will significantly affect 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 consider 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’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it’s important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Running Springs, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within 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 | $24,071 | 9.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $32,483 | 9.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $41,090 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $49,891 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $58,886 | 8.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $68,076 | 8.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $77,459 | 8.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $87,038 | 8.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, such as:
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
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 Running Springs, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Running Springs?
The average cost of solar panels in Running Springs 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 certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Running Springs have a net metering program?
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 power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Running Springs?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.