Solar Panel Cost Guide in Visalia, CA (2024 Update)
- Visalia Solar Installation Cost: $7,187
- 25-Year Savings: $16,140
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Visalia
We go over average solar pricing in Visalia.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Visalia it’s 3 per watt.The average Visalia homeowner needs a 3.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $7,187 with the federal tax credit, or $10,277 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Visalia depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Visalia homeowner can save around $28,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Visalia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,901 |
| 3 years | $-3,330 |
| 5 years | $-759 |
| 7 years | $1,813 |
| 9 years | $4,384 |
| 11 years | $6,955 |
| 13 years | $9,527 |
| 15 years | $12,098 |
| 17 years | $14,669 |
| 19 years | $17,240 |
| 21 years | $19,812 |
| 23 years | $22,383 |
| 25 years | $24,954 |
Top Solar Installers in Visalia
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy use, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
Working with a vetted solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Visalia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Visalia
The cost of installing a solar system in Visalia can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,470. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space 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. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Visalia to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Visalia, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Visalia have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $29,038 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $39,105 | 8.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $49,368 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $59,824 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $70,475 | 7.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $81,320 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $92,359 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $103,593 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully 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: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
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
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Visalia, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Visalia?
The average cost of solar panels in Visalia is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Visalia?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Visalia. However, you may still be able to afford 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.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,473.15 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of 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 buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.