Solar Panel Cost Guide in Thermalito, CA (2024 Update)

  • Thermalito Solar Installation Cost: $7,626
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,331
  • Payback Period: 7.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Thermalito

Here’s how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Thermalito.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Thermalito, the typical cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.Because a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Thermalito, the average price of going solar will be about $7,626 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $32,000 over 20 years on energy bills.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Thermalito

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-6,088
3 years $-3,013
5 years $63
7 years $3,139
9 years $6,215
11 years $9,291
13 years $12,366
15 years $15,442
17 years $18,518
19 years $21,594
21 years $24,670
23 years $27,745
25 years $30,821

Top Solar Installers in Thermalito

Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a challenging task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy consumption, but going with a solar company can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.

If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Thermalito

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Thermalito

Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Thermalito: 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 panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation 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.The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof 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 raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Thermalito to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you pick will impact your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, 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 $35,162 7.5 years
8 kW $3.54 $19,821 $47,271 7.4 years
10 kW $3.47 $24,290 $59,574 7.2 years
12 kW $3.40 $28,565 $72,072 7.1 years
14 kW $3.33 $32,646 $84,764 7.0 years
16 kW $3.26 $36,532 $97,651 6.8 years
18 kW $3.19 $40,224 $110,732 6.7 years
20 kW $3.12 $43,722 $124,007 6.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
  • Warranty: If you’re concerned about the longevity of your solar panel system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Thermalito, CA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Thermalito?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Is cost the most important consideration 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.

Is making the switch to solar worth it?

Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt 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.

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