Solar Panel Cost Guide in California, MO (2024 Update)

  • California Solar Installation Cost: $17,000
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,550
  • Payback Period: 13.0 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

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 California

Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in California.

In California, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.The average California homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,000 with the federal tax credit, or $24,310 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely vary based on your energy needs and what company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average California homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

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

Solar savings over time in California

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-15,710
3 years $-13,129
5 years $-10,548
7 years $-7,966
9 years $-5,385
11 years $-2,804
13 years $-223
15 years $2,358
17 years $4,939
19 years $7,520
21 years $10,102
23 years $12,683
25 years $15,264

Top Solar Installers in California

Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra labor and knowledge. Because of that, most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

See all of the solar companies in California

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in California

While the average cost of a solar system in California is $17,000, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,370.The type of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will largely influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Further, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to make decisions about 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

Most solar companies in California offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you choose will affect your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in California have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 $3.50 $14,720 $12,435 13.6 years
8 kW $3.44 $19,249 $16,957 13.3 years
10 kW $3.37 $23,590 $21,668 13.0 years
12 kW $3.30 $27,742 $26,568 12.8 years
14 kW $3.24 $31,705 $31,656 12.5 years
16 kW $3.17 $35,479 $36,933 12.2 years
18 kW $3.10 $39,065 $42,399 12.0 years
20 kW $3.03 $42,462 $48,054 11.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar panel 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 some important things you should consider, including:

  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's California, MO Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in California?

The average cost of solar panels in California is about $16,850 for a 5-kW system and $33,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Are solar panels free in California?

You can’t get solar panels for free in California. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Is going solar worth it?

Solar panels can be a fruitful 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 power bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.

How long do solar panels last in California?

Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can 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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