Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sacramento, CA (2024 Update)
- Sacramento Solar Installation Cost: $7,491
- 25-Year Savings: $16,777
- Payback Period: 8.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sacramento
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Sacramento.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sacramento, the typical cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 3.1-kW system would cost about $7,491 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you choose, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $28,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Sacramento find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Sacramento that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Sacramento
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-6,446 |
| 3 years | $-4,357 |
| 5 years | $-2,267 |
| 7 years | $-178 |
| 9 years | $1,912 |
| 11 years | $4,001 |
| 13 years | $6,091 |
| 15 years | $8,180 |
| 17 years | $10,270 |
| 19 years | $12,359 |
| 21 years | $14,449 |
| 23 years | $16,538 |
| 25 years | $18,628 |
Top Solar Installers in Sacramento
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and knowledge. For that reason, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Sacramento
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sacramento
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Sacramento: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production use 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 brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Sacramento, 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Sacramento, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s a good idea 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Sacramento are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use 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 end up saving you 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 | $28,949 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $38,988 | 8.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $49,220 | 8.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $59,647 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $70,269 | 7.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $81,084 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $92,094 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $103,299 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Sacramento, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to 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.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Sacramento, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sacramento?
The average cost of solar panels in Sacramento 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 such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Sacramento, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.