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

  • Willows Solar Installation Cost: $7,560
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,383
  • 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 Willows

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Willows.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Willows is 3 per watt.Since a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Willows, the average price of going solar will be about $7,560 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 panel system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $32,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Willows

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-6,022
3 years $-2,946
5 years $130
7 years $3,205
9 years $6,281
11 years $9,357
13 years $12,433
15 years $15,509
17 years $18,584
19 years $21,660
21 years $24,736
23 years $27,812
25 years $30,888

Top Solar Installers in Willows

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar company too, which can save you more money over time.

Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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 Willows

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Willows

There are many factors that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Willows, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Willows provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.It’s a good idea to add 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 how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can impact how much you pay. Willows’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 $35,603 7.5 years
8 kW $3.54 $19,821 $47,860 7.3 years
10 kW $3.47 $24,290 $60,311 7.2 years
12 kW $3.40 $28,565 $72,956 7.0 years
14 kW $3.33 $32,646 $85,795 6.9 years
16 kW $3.26 $36,532 $98,829 6.7 years
18 kW $3.19 $40,224 $112,057 6.6 years
20 kW $3.12 $43,722 $125,479 6.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.

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 Willows, CA Solar Cost FAQs

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

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Willows?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it typically 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.

Does Willows 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 electricity bills.

How long do solar panels last in Willows?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.

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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