Are Solar Panels Worth It In California

New research published in the peer reviewed journal solar energy suggests california should embrace the idea of building more solar panels than it can consistently use rather than treating.

Are solar panels worth it in california.

While solar leases and power purchase. Technicians from solar source install solar panels on a house in dunedin florida. It usually costs 15 000 to 20 000 after tax credits and can reduce your electricity bill by 70 to 100 percent depending on the size and. It seemed like an environmental no brainer.

This is higher than the average price of residential solar power systems across the united states which is currently 2 60 per watt. You have almost an 18 year margin of safety to get your money back. As of sep 2020 the average cost of solar panels in california is 2 68 per watt making a typical 6000 watt 6 kw solar system 11 877 after claiming the 26 federal solar tax credit now available. If you have enough to make a purchase in cash you ll save more than with any other option but even with a 0 down solar loan your savings could still be in the tens of thousands.

Let s explore why that is why solar panels are always a good investment. Cash buying your solar electric system outright is best. Given a solar panel system size of 5 kilowatts kw an average solar installation in california ranges in cost from 12 708 to 17 192 with the average gross price for solar in california coming in at 14 950. One of the biggest advantages of installing residential solar panels is a 30 federal tax credit on the total cost of a system.

The residential renewable energy tax credit as the irs calls it can be an attractive way to save on the significant cost of installing solar panels or roofing. If the system requires repairs or maintenance you will have saved enough from lower electricity bills to cover these costs. After accounting for the 26 federal investment tax credit itc and other state and local solar incentives the net price you ll pay for solar can fall by thousands of dollars. Whether you choose to buy or lease your solar panels will have a major impact on your system s long term value.

Chris zuppa the penny hoarder. The short answer is yes even in an expensive state like california going solar is worth the investment. As of september 2020 the average solar panel cost in california is 2 99 w. How are you financing your solar panel system.

A couple of years ago steven weissman an energy lawyer at the university of california berkeley started to shop around for solar panels for his house.