Ever wondered what it takes to go green with energy in Sacramento? With an increasing number of homeowners turning their eyes towards sustainable living, understanding the ins and outs of Solar Panel Installation Cost in Sacramento, CA, is more crucial than ever. So, whether you’re dipping your toes into this world for the first time or thinking about stepping up your game, let’s dive into why choosing solar power is a smart move for folks living in Sacramento these days.
Understanding the Cost of Solar Panel Installation in Sacramento
The cost of solar panel installation in Sacramento has been rising steadily in recent years. With this in mind, it’s important to understand the different factors that can affect the cost and the various options available.
This article will help you understand the cost of solar panels in Sacramento, including installation fees, maintenance and energy savings. We’ll also discuss the impact of government incentives, rebates and other financial considerations that may be available to you.
By the time we wrap up here, you’ll have a clearer picture of what your wallet’s looking at for slapping some solar panels on your roof in Sacramento.
The Breakdown of Solar Panel Installation Costs
As of March 2024, the average solar panel system costs $2.87/W including installation in Sacramento, CA. For a 5 kW installation, this comes out to about $14,374 before incentives, though prices range from $12,218 to $16,530.
After the federal tax credit, the average price drops by 30%. The cost of solar panels in Sacramento varies depending on what type of system you choose and the company you hire to install it.
Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3.50 – $4.50 per watt of solar power for a residential solar panel system. This cost can be even lower if you qualify for incentives such as the California Solar Initiative or the Federal Investment Tax Credit.
For a typical sized solar panel system, you can expect to pay anywhere from $9,000-15,000 for the system and installation, depending on the size of your home or business and what type of renewable energy system you choose.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Solar Panels
The size of a solar panel system also plays a role in how much the installation will cost. Larger solar installations will typically have a lower cost per watt, because the panels can be purchased at a ‘bulk price’.
However, these larger solar systems will still have a higher total cost, because they are made up of more individual panels.
| System Size | Average Cost (Before Tax Credits) | Average Cost (After Tax Credits) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 kW | $5,740 | $4,018 |
| 3 kW | $8,610 | $6,027 |
| 4 kW | $11,480 | $8,036 |
| 5 kW | $14,350 | $10,045 |
| 6 kW | $17,220 | $12,054 |
| 7 kW | $20,090 | $14,063 |
| 8 kW | $22,960 | $16,072 |
| 9 kW | $25,830 | $18,081 |
| 10 kW | $28,700 | $20,090 |
Table 2: Average cost of residential solar systems by system size
*What is a kilowatt and what is a kilowatt hour?
Best Solar Panel Companies in Sacramento
If you’re looking for solar companies in CA, here are some popular suggestions:
- NRG Clean Power
- Sunrise Energy Solutions
- Cosmic Solar
- Solar Symphony
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.
So, even though you might shell out a bit more at the start, these choices can often lead to bigger savings down the road.
National Providers vs Local Companies: A Comparison
When it comes to choosing a solar panel installation company in Sacramento, you have the option of going with a national provider or a local company. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
National providers often have more experience and resources, which can translate into lower prices and faster installation times. They may also offer more comprehensive warranties and maintenance plans.
On the other hand, local companies are often more familiar with the specific needs and challenges of installing solar panels in Sacramento. They may have better relationships with local utilities and permitting agencies, which can streamline the installation process.
Local companies may also be more invested in the community and more responsive to customer needs and concerns.
Top Rated Solar Installers in Sacramento
According to recent reviews and ratings, some of the top solar installers in Sacramento include:
- NRG Clean Power – 4.9 stars out of 5
- Sunrise Energy Solutions – 4.8 stars out of 5
- Cosmic Solar – 4.7 stars out of 5
- Solar Symphony – 4.6 stars out of 5
These companies have consistently received high marks for their quality of work, customer service, and overall value. However, it’s always a good idea to do your own research and get quotes from multiple companies before making a decision.
Maximizing Return on Investment (ROI) from Solar Panels
Sacramento residents who can rely exclusively on solar will save, on average, $1,628 per year. That assumes a 6kW system that’s paid off over 25 years.
However, this doesn’t include any state-specific incentives that may be available in your area. Another reason to consider solar: Utility rates typically rise by 2.2% each year, so keep this in mind when calculating your potential savings.
Understanding Home Value Return from Solar Panels
Slapping some solar panels on your house could do more than just slash your energy bills – it might also bump up your home’s value. According to a recent study by Zillow, homes with solar panels sell for 4.1% more on average than comparable homes without solar.
In Sacramento, where the median home value is around $450,000, that translates to an additional $18,450 in value. Of course, the actual value added will depend on factors like the size and age of your solar panel system, as well as local market conditions.
Federal Tax Credit and Other Incentives for Solar Panels
One of the biggest incentives for installing solar panels is the federal investment tax credit (ITC). The ITC allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from your federal taxes.
For example, if your solar panel system costs $20,000, you would be eligible for a $6,000 tax credit. The ITC is set to step down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034, so now is a great time to take advantage of this incentive.
In addition to the ITC, there may be other incentives available at the state and local level. For example, the California Solar Initiative offers rebates for installing solar panels, and some utilities offer net metering programs that allow you to sell excess energy back to the grid.
Be sure to research all available incentives in your area to maximize your ROI from solar panels.
Solar Panel Installation Lead Times in Sacramento
When it comes to going solar in Sacramento, one of the biggest questions on people’s minds is: how long will it take? The answer isn’t always straightforward.
Lead times for solar panel installation in Sacramento can vary depending on a number of factors, from the size and complexity of your system to the availability of your chosen installer.
Average Lead Times for Solar Panel Installation
On average, the lead time for a residential solar installation in Sacramento falls between 6 to 12 weeks from the time you sign your contract to the time your system is up and running.
However, this timeline can fluctuate based on things like:
- Permitting and inspections
- Equipment availability
- Weather conditions
- Installer workload
Some larger or more complex installations may take longer, while smaller, more straightforward projects could be completed in as little as a month.
How to Expedite the Installation Process
If you’re eager to start harnessing the power of the sun ASAP, there are a few things you can do to help speed up your solar installation:
- Choose an experienced, reputable installer with a proven track record of efficient installations.
- Make sure your roof is in good condition and doesn’t need any major repairs before installation begins.
- Have your utility bills and energy usage data ready to go, so your installer can size your system accurately from the get-go.
- Be prompt in reviewing and signing paperwork, and responsive to any requests for information or decisions from your installer.
While some factors, like permitting timelines, are outside of your control, being prepared and proactive can help keep your solar installation moving along as smoothly as possible.
The key is to work with a knowledgeable solar installer who can guide you through the process, set realistic expectations, and keep you updated every step of the way.
Comparing Solar Panel Costs Across Different Cities in California
Now, let’s dive into comparing solar panel costs across several of California’s big cities.
Solar Panel Cost in Fresno
In Fresno, the average cost of a residential solar panel system ranges from $2.73 to $3.69 per watt, with an average price of $3.21 per watt.
For a typical 5 kW system, that translates to a total cost of $13,650 to $18,450 before incentives.
Solar Panel Cost in Los Angeles
Los Angeles residents can expect to pay slightly more for their solar panels, with an average cost per watt of $3.36.
For a 5 kW system, the total cost comes out to around $14,280 to $19,320 before incentives.
Solar Panel Cost in San Diego
San Diego boasts some of the lowest solar panel prices in California, with an average cost per watt of $3.10.
A 5 kW system in San Diego will set you back about $13,175 to $17,825 before incentives.
Solar Panel Cost in San Francisco
In the Bay Area, solar panel costs are on the higher end, with an average price per watt of $3.45 in San Francisco.
For a 5 kW system, San Franciscans can expect to pay around $14,662 to $19,838 before incentives.
While these prices may seem steep, it’s important to remember that California offers some of the most generous solar incentives in the country, including the Net Energy Metering (NEM) program and the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP).
Tossing in these sweet incentives and the endless sunshine that California is famous for, deciding to go solar feels like a no-brainer, regardless of which corner of this sunny state you call your home.
Solar Panel Installation Cost in Sacramento, CA FAQs:
Is solar worth it in Sacramento?
Absolutely. With high sunshine rates, federal incentives, and rising electricity costs, going solar in Sacramento cuts bills and saves green.
How much do solar panels cost for a 2000 square foot house in California?
In California, outfitting a 2000 sq ft home with solar panels might run you around $15k to $25k after rebates.
Will California pay homeowners to install solar panels?
Yes. Homeowners can tap into various state programs and federal tax credits to help offset the initial installation outlay.
Is solar still worth it in California?
Sure is. Despite upfront costs, long-term savings on energy bills and generous government incentives make it a smart move.
Conclusion
The journey through solar panel installation cost in Sacramento, CA, might have started with numbers but ends with a realization. This goes beyond merely pinching pennies; it’s about making smart choices that benefit our planet and help you cut down on those pesky utility bills. If you’re ready to get started, click here to start comparing estimates from contractors in Sacramento, CA.
