Should you buy solar panels from a full-service installer?

If you purchase through a full-service installer, you will likely get a lower price for each panel than buying them individually from a retail store. It’s worth noting (as we’ll explore further below) that solar modules typically make up less than 20% of the overall cost of a home installation.

How much do monocrystalline solar panels cost?

Monocrystalline solar panels usually cost between $1 to $1.50 per watt and are popular among consumers. They are made using single silicon crystals, cut into thin octagonal discs for optimal efficiency. Despite their enhanced efficiency, their higher cost makes them pricier to acquire and install compared to other types.

Why are residential solar panels so expensive?

Since 2010, residential solar panel prices have fallen by roughly 50% while US solar deployment has grown by over 2,000%. The slight rise in residential solar pricing from 2020-2023 is largely attributed to supply chain tangles from the pandemic.

Is California a good state to save money with solar?

Given its abundant sunshine and high utility electricity rates, California is one of the best states to save money with home solar. In fact, even after reducing the value of solar exports through NEM 3.0 solar billing, Californians can still save more money with solar than homeowners in most other states.

How much do thin-film solar panels cost?

Thin-film solar panels are priced between $0.50 and $1.50 per watt, making them a cost-effective option. They utilize photovoltaic materials like other solar panels but often employ amorphous silicon, lacking a crystalline structure.