Solar panel cost Irvine: Prices & data 2021
Updated: June 14, 2021As of Jun 2021, the average cost of solar panels in Irvine is $2.93 per watt making a typical 6000 watt (6 kW) solar system $13,016 after claiming the 26% federal solar tax credit now available.
This is lower than the average price of residential solar power systems across the United States which is currently $3.00 per watt.
Installed Irvine solar system cost by:
Solar panel installation cost in Irvine
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.
Table 2: Average cost of residential solar systems by system size
| System size* | Avg cost per watt |
Avg system cost
(After tax credit) show before tax |
|---|---|---|
| 4kW | $3.18 | $9,427 |
| 5kW | $3.08 | $11,386 |
| 6kW | $2.93 | $13,016 |
| 7kW | $2.91 | $15,083 |
| 8kW | $2.94 | $17,407 |
| 9kW | $2.84 | $18,947 |
| 10kW | $2.83 | $20,907 |
Irvine solar cost and savings calculator
Best unit price
$320.00 ($0.96 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,523.93
($2.49 p/w)
LG335N1K-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$562.50 ($1.50 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,931.63
($2.45 p/w)
LG375A1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$430.00 ($1.15 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,718.32
($2.61 p/w)
LG375Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$473.34 ($1.30 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$13,025.23
($2.55 p/w)
LG365Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
365 watts
Efficiency
21.1
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$291.18 ($0.88 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,008.02
($2.43 p/w)
VBH330RA03K overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.7
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$340.00 ($1.00 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$14,280.00
($2.80 p/w)
VBHN340SA17 HIT+ overview
Rated power
340 watts
Efficiency
20.3
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$432.00 ($1.31 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,202.42
($2.47 p/w)
VBHN330SA17E overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.7
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$297.60 ($0.89 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,059.05
($2.60 p/w)
VBHN335SA17 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
20
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$600.00 ($1.83 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,968.01
($2.44 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-COM overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$800.00 ($2.22 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,335.47
($2.45 p/w)
SPR-X22-360 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
22.2
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,803.99
($2.61 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-D-AC overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,717.55
($2.59 p/w)
SPR-E20-327 overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$205.00 ($0.58 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$11,951.44
($2.40 p/w)
CS3U-355PB-AG overview
Rated power
355 watts
Efficiency
17.7
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
polycrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$240.01 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.8kW system
$12,341.39
($2.57 p/w)
CS3W-400PB-AG overview
Rated power
400 watts
Efficiency
17.9
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
polycrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$207.90 ($0.66 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,561.32
($2.49 p/w)
CS3K-315MS overview
Rated power
315 watts
Efficiency
18.96
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$247.00 ($0.75 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,948.87
($2.62 p/w)
CS1H-330MS BLACK overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.57
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$165.00 ($0.53 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,079.73
($2.44 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-310M overview
Rated power
310 watts
Efficiency
18.7
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$196.11 ($0.65 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$12,310.27
($2.41 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-300M overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.1
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$172.00 ($0.56 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,840.67
($2.43 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-305M overview
Rated power
305 watts
Efficiency
18.4
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$228.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,854.42
($2.40 p/w)
LR4-60HPH-380M overview
Rated power
380 watts
Efficiency
20.9
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
4.92 373 Reviews
Latest review
Matt McPherson made solar easy, 3 weeks ago
We chose Renova because many neighbors have gone with them over the past few years and all have been satisfied. They are a local company who made the process easy.
Read more
Latest review
Matt McPherson made solar easy, 3 weeks ago
We chose Renova because many neighbors have gone with them over the past few years and all have been satisfied. They are a local company who made the process easy.
4.89 275 Reviews
Latest review
Michael F, over 1 month
Cosmic solar had the most honest and transparent sales process of all the companies I spoke with (Ken is great). They installed my panels quickly and everything looks/works great. We are very happy with our system!
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$19,300 ($3.86 per watt)
Latest review
Michael F, over 1 month
Cosmic solar had the most honest and transparent sales process of all the companies I spoke with (Ken is great). They installed my panels quickly and everything looks/works great. We are very happy with our system!
4.89 196 Reviews
Latest review
itang, over 1 month
Thank you so much, I've been wanting solar panels for years but they were so cost prohibitive. I'm glad it's gotten a lot less expensive and that Sunwork nonprofit offers solar panels at a low cost for those who can qualify. Appreciate it!
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$13,500 ($2.70 per watt)
Latest review
itang, over 1 month
Thank you so much, I've been wanting solar panels for years but they were so cost prohibitive. I'm glad it's gotten a lot less expensive and that Sunwork nonprofit offers solar panels at a low cost for those who can qualify. Appreciate it!
4.88 74 Reviews
Latest review
Stanley, over 1 month
I find AHS based on good review online. I start communicating with Meo in email. Meo is very knowledgeable, and he also give me a competitive quote compare with other installer. Meo do not oversell me, only sell the system what we need and Meo handle all the permit work and inspection completed. The installment was also run smooth. Meo and his team is so efficient. The installation job is done in very professional. Meo also stand by their product. I have one panel have under performance issue. Meo and David keep come to my home to diagnose issue , and help to process the warranty from the manufacturer to replace the panel They went above and beyond to support the customer. I highly recommend AHS.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$14,900 ($2.98 per watt)
Latest review
Stanley, over 1 month
I find AHS based on good review online. I start communicating with Meo in email. Meo is very knowledgeable, and he also give me a competitive quote compare with other installer. Meo do not oversell me, only sell the system what we need and Meo handle all the permit work and inspection completed. The installment was also run smooth. Meo and his team is so efficient. The installation job is done in very professional. Meo also stand by their product. I have one panel have under performance issue. Meo and David keep come to my home to diagnose issue , and help to process the warranty from the manufacturer to replace the panel They went above and beyond to support the customer. I highly recommend AHS.
4.81 61 Reviews
Latest review
Gerald, 3 weeks ago
I read alot of scary reviews from people getting their solar done. Thankfully I was not one of them. From working with Daniel in Sales to my roof inspection from Chris, to the installation done by Eddie and his team. I could not be happier with Sol R US.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$15,350 ($3.07 per watt)
Latest review
Gerald, 3 weeks ago
I read alot of scary reviews from people getting their solar done. Thankfully I was not one of them. From working with Daniel in Sales to my roof inspection from Chris, to the installation done by Eddie and his team. I could not be happier with Sol R US.
4.80 65 Reviews
Latest review
Francis U, 6 days ago
Rae and Pablo did a great job explaining how the process worked. I also checked on a lot of things myself. You can look at the cost of the solar installation and compare it work others in the area and their cost was below average. They use the Enphase micro-inverter technology which is high quality and state of the art. The installation and inspections were faster than I expected and very smooth. Rae has done a great job of making sure every step of the way was successful. I highly recommend Kota.
Read more
Latest review
Francis U, 6 days ago
Rae and Pablo did a great job explaining how the process worked. I also checked on a lot of things myself. You can look at the cost of the solar installation and compare it work others in the area and their cost was below average. They use the Enphase micro-inverter technology which is high quality and state of the art. The installation and inspections were faster than I expected and very smooth. Rae has done a great job of making sure every step of the way was successful. I highly recommend Kota.
4.80 62 Reviews
Latest review
Mark C, 1 week ago
I chose Mynt Solar based on reviews and trustworthy customer sales and service.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$14,750 ($2.95 per watt)
Latest review
Mark C, 1 week ago
I chose Mynt Solar based on reviews and trustworthy customer sales and service.
4.79 66 Reviews
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
As having solar system installed is a 20 years commitment, I spoke to 5 solar companies not just to compare the price but most importantly to see cross reference the information they provided.<br /><br />What I found out, sales reps mostly reply on the computer program generated quote. Interestingly, after analyzing the same PG&E electricity usage history, some quoted me 7.6kw and some quoted me 5.8kw system. That is a huge difference that I definitely would love to sort out why. Most sales rep will cite that is how their software calculates, some said that is based upon system needs to cover 100% PG&E usage. Only Ali from Highligh Solar clearly explained how PG&E Net Metering works, and made clear sense the system size he recommended.<br /><br />The most amazing about Ali is that any question I came up with, e.g. what is the back feed of my main panel, he can get me the right answer right away even after 6 weeks of his visit, with picture of my panel attached. <br /><br />Once the decision is made, Ali walked me through the proposal and contract review, and Dean, the owner, was also very accommodating to accept some revisions I requested.. <br /><br />Then Jesse helped with permits and project management, Sam helped with monitoring and PG&E application, plus the professional installation team who made the whole process as smooth as it gets.<br /><br />2 days after installation, I reported weird system reading from Solar Edge mobile app, Dean and Sam called Solar Edge and confirmed they need to replace the inverter, which then got scheduled and done in less than 2 days by next available technician.<br /><br />In the end, Dean also personally helped me understand Solar Edge monitor reading, and answer many solar production related questions!!!<br /><br />All in all, I highly recommend Highlight Solar for their well rounded professional team!!!!!! Their service deserved 6 stars!!!
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$19,550 ($3.91 per watt)
Latest review
Anonymous, over 1 month
As having solar system installed is a 20 years commitment, I spoke to 5 solar companies not just to compare the price but most importantly to see cross reference the information they provided.<br /><br />What I found out, sales reps mostly reply on the computer program generated quote. Interestingly, after analyzing the same PG&E electricity usage history, some quoted me 7.6kw and some quoted me 5.8kw system. That is a huge difference that I definitely would love to sort out why. Most sales rep will cite that is how their software calculates, some said that is based upon system needs to cover 100% PG&E usage. Only Ali from Highligh Solar clearly explained how PG&E Net Metering works, and made clear sense the system size he recommended.<br /><br />The most amazing about Ali is that any question I came up with, e.g. what is the back feed of my main panel, he can get me the right answer right away even after 6 weeks of his visit, with picture of my panel attached. <br /><br />Once the decision is made, Ali walked me through the proposal and contract review, and Dean, the owner, was also very accommodating to accept some revisions I requested.. <br /><br />Then Jesse helped with permits and project management, Sam helped with monitoring and PG&E application, plus the professional installation team who made the whole process as smooth as it gets.<br /><br />2 days after installation, I reported weird system reading from Solar Edge mobile app, Dean and Sam called Solar Edge and confirmed they need to replace the inverter, which then got scheduled and done in less than 2 days by next available technician.<br /><br />In the end, Dean also personally helped me understand Solar Edge monitor reading, and answer many solar production related questions!!!<br /><br />All in all, I highly recommend Highlight Solar for their well rounded professional team!!!!!! Their service deserved 6 stars!!!
4.79 86 Reviews
Latest review
Jakester, over 1 month
After much research, I chose AMECO solar over many others and am pleased with their work. My detailed review is on YELP. In short, they were excellent to deal with even as I coordinated three projects together with my solar installation. Kudos to Thomas Vitale, my initial phone contact and Yazmina Crooks, my project coordinator!
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$16,800 ($3.36 per watt)
Latest review
Jakester, over 1 month
After much research, I chose AMECO solar over many others and am pleased with their work. My detailed review is on YELP. In short, they were excellent to deal with even as I coordinated three projects together with my solar installation. Kudos to Thomas Vitale, my initial phone contact and Yazmina Crooks, my project coordinator!
4.77 32 Reviews
Latest review
Devin Yu, over 1 month
My husband and I both heard about the terrible experiences going solar. But with our SCE bill hitting over $400 in the summer we figured the risk was worth the reward. We weren't sure who to ask with our questions so we contacted a few companies that had great reviews. After comparing all the various solar companies we opted for Forme Solar due to their warranty and experience with solar repair. Well, it was the best thing we ever did. Going solar has cut our utility bill to a fraction of what it once was and we have a pool and two AC units. The customer service and installation was fast and responsive. I am very pleased with our solar system and would get it installed again with Forme Solar.
Read more
Latest review
Devin Yu, over 1 month
My husband and I both heard about the terrible experiences going solar. But with our SCE bill hitting over $400 in the summer we figured the risk was worth the reward. We weren't sure who to ask with our questions so we contacted a few companies that had great reviews. After comparing all the various solar companies we opted for Forme Solar due to their warranty and experience with solar repair. Well, it was the best thing we ever did. Going solar has cut our utility bill to a fraction of what it once was and we have a pool and two AC units. The customer service and installation was fast and responsive. I am very pleased with our solar system and would get it installed again with Forme Solar.
How much do solar systems using the most common brands of solar panels cost in Irvine in 2021?
Where there is no specific pricing information available for a brand then we have used state pricing data for that brand.
Table 2: Local solar panel manufacturers
| Solar panel manufacturer | Avg. cost per watt |
|---|---|
| Canadian Solar | $2.80 |
| LG Solar | $3.15 |
| SunPower | $3.26 |
| Panasonic | $3.18 |
| LONGi Solar | $2.73 |
Why solar panel cost should not be your only consideration when buying solar panels for your home
The most important difference between buying solar panels and any other purchase is that solar panels last 25-30 years. This is a long, long time and you will need customer service over all that time. The reviews below of the two largest corporate solar installation companies indicate larger corporate solar companies are not delivering this support to their customers.
We recommend you find a small or mid-size, local, family-owned solar company. These companies tend to care more about you and your specific job. You don't want to be on hold to a corporation's call center for the next 25 years!
What other factors affect the cost of solar panels for your home?
The cost of solar doesn't just include the equipment and installation costs - it’s also made up of permitting costs, inspection costs, and installer profit margins.
Chart 2: What is the breakdown of cost in an installed residential solar system? (cents per watt)
These different components are what make the price of solar fluctuate between installations. Some of the factors that affect solar power system installation costs for specific homes include:
The amount of electricity your home uses
Homes that use more electricity will need more solar panels to cover their energy needs.
Although solar panels do get cheaper on a per-watt basis, the overall cost of the system will increase as more panels are added.
But, the higher a home’s energy usage, the more solar panels can save the homeowners on their energy bills.
The type of solar panels you buy
The price of solar panels can vary depending on the type of solar panels you choose.
There are two main types of solar panels for residential solar installations: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline solar panels tend to be more efficient and more expensive than other solar panels. Polycrystalline panels have a lower efficiency rating and come at a lower price point.
The type of inverter you buy will also influence the cost of your solar system.
The quality of your solar installation
You may see some solar quotes with prices that seem too good to be true.
If you get quoted for a ridiculously cheap price, the installer might be using low-quality equipment or an unsustainable pricing model. You want to use a solar installer that is charging enough so that they can stay in business - as you’ll be relying on them for the next 25 years!
It’s important to make sure that your installer is giving you the best quality at the best price possible. This is why getting multiple solar quotes is so important.
Federal, state, and local solar incentives
The overall cost of solar can be influenced by the solar incentives available.
Across the U.S., homeowners can apply for the federal solar tax credit, also called the ITC. The solar tax credit makes installing solar more cost-effective by providing homeowners with a tax credit equal to 26% of the cost of their installed solar panel system.
Local solar tax incentives and rebates can end up saving homeowners thousands on a solar installation, especially when they’re used with the federal solar tax credit.
See what solar incentives are available in your area by using our solar panel calculator.
How is the cost of solar panels offset by solar tax credits in Irvine?
The cost of installing residential solar panels in Irvine varies with the brand of solar panels and inverters you choose, the installation company you choose to install them, the relative ease or difficulty of installing solar panels on your home, and of course the amount of solar panels you need. The amount of solar panels you need is, in turn, related to your energy usage.
Are solar panels worth it in Irvine in 2021
The table below shows the data extracted from a real life quote delivered through the SolarReviews marketplace recently for a fairly typical home in Irvine.
As you can see the payback period is relatively short and equates to a much better return on investment than he historical returns that have been available from investing in things like shares or property.
Table 2: Cost, savings and payback period for an average residential solar system in Irvine
| System information | Value |
|---|---|
| System Size (for 100% usage offset) | 7.04 kW |
| Annual power generation | 8,333 kWh |
| Pay-back time (assuming Cash purchase) | 6.6 Years |
| Internal rate of return (IRR) on investment | 12.8% |
| Gross cost | $18,432 |
| Total Upfront Incentives and Rebates | -$7,292 |
| Net Cost of System after rebated and incentives | $11,137 |
| Total Cost of Utility Power Avoided over 25 years | $58,320 |
Please note that the investment return figures do not include the possible increase in property value
People also ask:
Related solar news
Ben Zientara
February 12, 2021
Big changes on the horizon for California net metering in 2021
California regulators are changing how solar owners connect to the grid & get credit for solar energy. The changes could greatly affect the solar industry.
Ben Zientara
January 26, 2021
The state of net metering in the United States in 2021
This annual report ranks the states for friendliness to home solar based on their net metering programs.
Catherine Lane
July 16, 2020
What’s new with California’s SGIP battery rebate in 2021?
The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides a hefty rebate for solar battery installations to homeowners.
Ben Zientara
July 2, 2020
Low-income solar incentives in the US
Across the US, several states have programs that provide free solar panels for low-income households.
Andrew Sendy
April 14, 2020
What solar incentives and rebates are available to California homeowners in 2021?
It is very difficult to search for solar incentives because there are many solar and energy efficiency incentives in CA for which your home would not be eligible. As such, we built this simple California solar incentives calculator that shows only the cur