Best Solar Panels for Homes in Santa Barbara, CA

How to choose solar panels in Santa Barbara

California has the most solar energy capacity in the U.S. Close to seven million homes use power from the sun, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.

Homeowners install solar panels on roofs or on the ground to experience the benefits of solar power. The benefits of solar energy include:

• Lower energy costs
• Using a clean, renewable, low-cost source of power
• Financial incentives from the U.S. and the State of California
• Increased home value
• Guaranteed performance
• Residents who use solar energy to power their homes have the support of the City of Santa Barbara, which gets about 30% of its electricity from renewable sources including the sun.

If you are considering solar energy in Santa Barbara, it’s important to work with a reputable solar energy company that is licensed in the State of California. The Contractors State License Board regulates contractors installing, maintaining and repairing solar energy systems in Santa Barbara.

Solar energy companies offer free consultations to explain products, purchasing options, savings and warranty. Set up meetings with several licensed, well-reviewed solar energy companies to get estimates.

Types of solar panels

There are three main types of solar panels in Santa Barbara. The type you choose should be based on your property and budget.

How much do solar panels cost in Santa Barbara?

Solar panel cost is more affordable than ever. The average cost of solar panels in Santa Barbara is $15,000 - $20,000 before financial incentives, including a federal tax credit and California incentives. The higher the power capacity, the higher the cost of the system. The system size necessary for your home solar energy setup will depend on how much energy you use, your roof’s sunlight exposure and the efficiency of the solar panels.

You can purchase solar panels in Santa Barbara using cash or a loan from a solar energy company. You can also lease solar equipment and use the energy it produces or sign a power purchase agreement, which is similar to a lease, except you pay for the power the system produces.

Solar panel systems require little maintenance in their life span, which can be 25 years or longer. Whether you purchase solar equipment, lease it or have a power purchase agreement, your solar energy company should provide a performance guarantee and assistance in the event you need repairs or service.