Solar Energy in Monterey County, CA
Cost of Installing Solar Panels in Monterey County, California
Key Details
- Average cost of installing solar panels in Monterey County, CA ranges from $3 to $5 per watt, depending on system size, panel type, and brand/model.
- Solar panels in Monterey County are exempt from property taxes under the Active Solar Energy System Exclusion.
- Payback period for solar panels in Monterey County is typically 7-10 years.
- Solar panel installations should be done by licensed professionals, including specific contractor types.
- Homeowners with solar panels can sell excess energy through net metering.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Monterey County, CA?
As of 2022, the average cost of installing solar panels in Monterey County ranges from $3 to $5 per watt. The cost of a solar panel system depends on the size of the system, the type of panel, and the quality of the components. The cost also varies based on the brand and model of the panels.
| Energy System Size | Solar Panel Cost | Cost After Credit |
| 3 kW | $8,580 | $6,349 |
| 4 kW | $11,440 | $8,466 |
| 5 kW | $14,300 | $10,582 |
| 6 kW | $17,160 | $12,698 |
| 7 kW | $20,020 | $14,815 |
| 8 kW | $22,880 | $16,931 |
| 9 kW | $25,740 | $19,048 |
| 10 kW | $28,600 | $21,164 |
Multiple factors influence the eventual cost, including the panel type and wattage rating.
| Average Cost Breakdown for Solar Installation in Monterey County | |
| Cost Per Watt | |
| Monocrystalline Solar Panels | $2.80 - $3.50 per watt |
| Polycrystalline Solar Panels | $2.70 - $3.40 per watt |
| Thin Film Solar Panels | $2.50 - $3.00 per watt |
| Other Costs | |
| Solar Batteries | $5,000 - $7,000 |
| Cost of Racking | $.25 - $.50 per watt. |
| Installation and soft Costs | $2.50 - $4.50 per watt |
Are Solar Panels Exempt from Property Taxes in Monterey County?
Yes, California provides an Active Solar Energy System Exclusion for property taxes. This means that homeowners who add solar panels to their homes are exempt from paying additional property taxes based on the increased value of their property. For more information, please visit the California State Board of Equalization website.
The quickest way to find property records in Monterey county, California is to reach out to the Monterey County Assessor's Office.
Contact Address:
Monterey County Government Center Administration Building
Assessor’s Office
168 West Alisal Street, 1st Floor
Salinas, CA 93901
Telephone: (831) 755-5035 | Fax: (831) 755-5435
How Long Does it Take for Solar Panels to Pay for themselves in Monterey County?
On average, solar panel systems pay for themselves in Monterey County in about 7-10 years. The payback period for solar panels in Monterey County depends on factors such as the size of the system, the cost of electricity, and the amount of energy the system generates.
Do You Need a Handyman or a Solar Installer in Monterey County?
The U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy recommends that solar panel installations be done by a professional. In California, there are different types of contractor licenses that allow contractors to perform specific types of work, such as building, electrical, and plumbing.
"A" – General Engineering contractors
Contractors working in general engineering are licensed to install solar energy systems in Monterey County, California.
"B" – General Building contractors
These contractors are licensed to install solar energy systems under the definition of B&P Code section 7057.
C-4 Boiler, Hot-Water Heating, and Steam Fitting contractors
These contractors are licensed to work on projects involving solar heating apparatus connected to systems covered by this classification.
C-10 Electrical contractors
These contractors are licensed to work on solar projects that produce, transmit, transform, or use electrical energy in any way and for any purpose.
C-36 Plumbing contractors
These contractors are licensed to work on projects that involve connecting solar equipment to heat water or other fluids to the appropriate temperature.
C-46 Solar contractors
These contractors are licensed to install solar thermal or photovoltaic energy systems.
C-53 Swimming Pool contractors
These contractors are licensed to install solar heating in swimming pool projects.
How can I Sell Solar Energy in Monterey County?
Net metering is a billing system that allows homeowners with solar panels to receive credit for any excess energy produced by their panels that is fed back into the grid. This credit can then be used to offset the cost of energy used when the solar panels are not producing enough energy.
To sell solar energy in Monterey County, homeowners must meet the requirements for interconnection and metering. The U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy recommends that installations be done by a professional.
You can learn more about net metering and the basic requirements for interconnection and metering on the California Public Utilities Commission. \
NetMetering 3.0
Launched in April 2023, Net Metering 3.0 is an updated metering policy where homeowners with solar panels will be able to receive credits on their electric bill for any excess electricity they generate and send back to the grid. The new rule will apply to customers of three of California's largest utilities: Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric.
The new rule will increase the size limit for solar systems that are eligible for net metering from 1 - 5 megawatts. NetMetering 3.0 will also require utilities to offer time-of-use rates to all net metering customers. This means that customers will be charged different rates for electricity depending on the time of day.
Customers who install solar panels after the new Net Metering rule goes into effect will be required to pay a one-time interconnection fee.
Are Tesla Solar Panels Available in Monterey County, California?
Yes, Tesla solar panels are available in Monterey County. Tesla solar panels are a popular choice for those looking for a sleek and modern design.
They are known for their high efficiency and durability and come with a 25-year warranty. Additionally, Tesla offers a mobile app that allows you to monitor your solar production in real-time. However, Tesla solar panels may be more expensive than other options on the market.
It's always recommended to work with a local Tesla-certified installer, as they have the experience and expertise to ensure that your solar panel installation is done properly.
How to Find Solar Companies Near Me in Monterey County, California?
When searching for solar companies near you in Monterey County, there are a few things to consider. Here are some steps to follow:
STEP 1: Check for local incentives and rebates.
Before choosing a solar company, check for local incentives and rebates that may be available to help offset the cost of your solar panel installation.
STEP 2: Research potential solar companies.
Look for solar companies that have experience installing solar panels in Monterey County. You can start by searching for "Monterey solar companies near me" or "California solar companies near me" online.
STEP 3: Get multiple quotes.
Once you have a list of potential solar companies, get multiple quotes from each of them. This will help you compare prices and choose the solar company that best fits your needs and budget.
**Monterey County Statistics **
Monterey County is located in California's Central Coast region, with a population of approximately 435,594 people. The county has around 165,000 housing units, with a median home value of $580,300. The median gross rent is $1,202 per month, and building permits were issued for 2,321 new housing units in 2021.
The average number of persons per household is 2.9, and the percentage of owner-occupied housing units is 50.4%. The median selected owner's cost with a mortgage is $2,949 per month, and without a mortgage is $750 per month. Approximately 84.2% of people in Monterey County live in the same house as a year ago.
