Fresno has a sunny climate of almost 73% year-round. For at least three-quarters of the year, Fresno experiences partial or full sunshine. So, it is not a mystery that solar power has thrived in Fresno. Because of its sunshine, Fresno is a perfect place to go for solar energy.
This write-up will discuss solar panels in Fresno, and their installation costs. Plus, we will learn more about the top local solar companies. And lastly, we’ll talk about why it is a smart financial move to invest in solar panels in Fresno.
Average Cost of Local Solar Panels Installation in Fresno
As your solar friends, we want you to know the average cost of installing solar panels in Fresno. As of Dec 2023, the average price of solar panel installation is roughly $2.85/w. With a solar panel system size of 5 kW, the average cost ranges from $12,112-$16,388.
To catch an overview of the average cost of solar panels per system size in Fresno, see the table below:
| Solar Panel System/kW | Average Price | Price after applying ITC (Investment Tax Credit) |
| 3 kilowatts | $8,550 | $6,327 |
| 4 kilowatts | $11400 | $8436 |
| 5 kilowatts | $14,250 | $10,545 |
| 6 kilowatts | $17,100 | $12,654 |
| 7 kilowatts | $19,950 | $14,763 |
| 8 kilowatts | $22,800 | $16,872 |
| 9 kilowatts | $25,650 | $18,981 |
| 10 kilowatts | $28,500 | $21,090 |
A recent study indicates that the payback period for solar panel investment is approximately 5.58 years. This period includes 20-year savings amounting to $71 544 and $2.85 cost per watt.
Solar Tax Credits & Rebate Programs in Fresno
Aside from the abundant sunshine available in Fresno, there are many reasons why homeowners should choose solar energy. In the last ten years, solar panels’ price has dropped by 70%.
The best solar tax credits and returns are made even more accessible in the city. To help you not get lost, we created a list for you.
So here are the available programs used by homeowners to reduce solar panel costs.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The first solar incentive is the Federal Solar Investment. This program is a way to encourage solar owners by giving them a 26% tax credit.
The ITC of 30% is a dollar reduction of the income tax that homeowners owe the Federal State. However, the State would only apply the return to those who purchase entirely through a loan or cash.
However, the ITC will drop to 22% in 2034. It will finally stay at 10% for solar panel installations in buildings. Starting in January 2035, the State will eliminate the ITC in homes.
Net Metering
Net metering is one of the top reasons to go for solar power. Home appliances use solar energy. Any surplus will be sent directly to other houses in the neighborhood. Net metering is one way to make sure that you earn full credit for every solar electricity sent.
Active Solar Energy Tax Exclusion
Usually, when you install something of value like a solar panel on a property, there will be an addition in your property evaluation. As a result, the property tax will increase.
However, California’s Active Solar Energy Incentive allows homeowners to install solar panels without changing their property evaluation. This program applies even though solar panel installations increase the property’s value.
Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)
Often called as California Public Utilities Commission, this incentive provides a refund to non-residential and residential houses for solar energy installations.
Single-Family Affordable Solar Housing Program (DAC-SASH)
This program provides an incentive of $3 per watt to those homeowners who have a meager income. Over the years, SASH has been making solar energy within reach for those people in poor areas.
In addition, the program tries to reduce the traditional use of electricity. And it seeks to promote energy solutions that are wise and environmental-friendly.
To qualify for the program, single-family homeowners should be customers of San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), and Southern California Edison (SCE).
Top 7 Local Solar Companies in Fresno
Now, you might be thinking that solar panels are worth the investment. But the thing is, there are many solar companies around that you don’t even know where to start.
When it comes to finding solar panels, you should remember that you get to keep moving and shop around. Get the best deals. We’ve done almost half of the work for you.
So, let’s get into the top 7 local solar companies in Fresno.
1. SunMade Energy – Fresno Solar Company
One of the top-rated solar companies you get to find in Fresno, is SunMade energy. The company is Diamond Certified because of their world-class customer service.
Plus, SunMade Energy takes pride in providing some of the most efficient solar products on the market. The process is smooth, and the installation is quick. The solar company assures its customers that all of its workers are professional and reliable.
- Address: 4253 N Valentine Avenue, Fresno, CA 93722, United States
- Phone: +15592960440
2. Solar Negotiators
Here’s to another dedicated solar company in Fresno. Solar Negotiators have been performing the in-house installation to maintain the highest quality for solar panel installation.
The solar company conducts annual solar cleaning. What’s impressive is that they have excellent reviews because of their high-quality services. So, book your sale appointment now!
- Address: 6701 N Milburn Ave Suite #170, Fresno, CA 93722, United States
- Phone: +15594471557
3. Lifestyle Solar, Roofing, & HVAC
Established in 2007, Lifestyle Solar, Roofing, & HVAC has served solar homeowners for 15 years. The solar company has completed around 6,500 solar projects.
Suppose you’re worried about the money involved in going solar. In that case, Lifestyle Solar makes sure that its solar products are at the lowest prices. Because of its mission, the company has been able to help thousands to install solar.
- Address: 21 E Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93710, United States
- Phone: +15592280229
4. Energy Concepts
Are you looking for solar experts? Then, you are on the right track. Energy concepts promise to give their customers beautiful and practical solar for their homes. The company ensures that homeowners will benefit from installing solar with their skills.
They also offer a customized solar system to let their customers design their system. With Energy Concepts, you do not have to be in the dark anymore regarding solar-related stuff.
- Address: 1835 N Fine Ave Suite 106, Fresno, CA 93727, United States
- Phone: +15594852504
5. SunPower by Quality Home Services
SunPower has committed to offering efficient solar systems in Fresno, for 36 years. The company has professional solar installations that are of the best class.
Dedicated to satisfying customers, the company has the most effective and performing solar panels with a 25-year warranty. Contact them right away to get excellent deals and promos.
- Address: 4936 E Ashlan Ave Suite B, Fresno, CA 93726, United States
- Phone: +15592825004
6. Infinity Energy
One of the leading solar companies in Fresno, Infinity Energy always seeks to put its customers first. The solar company not only vows to provide the best solar panel available. They guarantee solar panels with excellent warranties.
Infinity Energy is a community advocate. Each solar panel that the company installs will provide food for two families for a week.
- Address: 5096 N Blythe Ave STE 100, Fresno, CA 93722, United States
- Phone: +15592952675
7. Solar Quote Installation & Maintenance
Found near CBC Lighting, Solar Quote is one of the leading and most reliable solar energy providers in Fresno. On top of that, the company has wise ideas and solutions to save energy.
They have a team that can install, maintain, and even repairs solar panels. You can also check out their solar cleaning services for homes and commercial buildings.
- Address: 2105 N Fine Ave, Fresno, CA 93727, United States
- Phone: +18552776527
Five Factors to Consider When Installing Solar Panels in Fresno
Of course, while installing solar panels is a smart financial move, it is not as easy as we might think. There are five factors to consider before installing solar panels in Fresno. Be sure to keep them in mind.
House’s Location
The location of your house plays an essential role in installing solar panels. As we all know, solar panels receive their energy from the sun. So, installers should place these panels where they will get incredible amounts of sunlight.
Roof’s Condition
Before mounting solar panels, it is necessary to check the roof of your house. On average, the solar panel has an average weight of 20kg. These panels will add more weight. So, homeowners must ensure a solid roof before placing solar panels.
Solar Panel’s Angle & Direction
Solar panels must be placed in a way that will capture the most sun. Maximum energy will come when solar panels are proper to the sun’s rays.
Shading Elements
Chimneys and other constructions are the shading elements we are talking about. Even minor shading can significantly reduce a solar panel’s energy reception efficiency.
Buildings and tall trees can be considered shading elements that affect solar panels’ efficiency. So now, rooftops are growing in popularity as a place for solar panels.
Weather and time of the Day
Clouds, fog, rain, and snow affect solar panels’ energy. Because of this, the power that these panels will get will be reduced. So, the local climate is one of the crucial factors before deciding to go for solar panels.
Further, solar power is at its high during noon time. So, those cities with sunnier and summer days have a higher advantage.
Final Thoughts: Are Solar Panels in Fresno Worth it?
We’ve come now to the moment of truth. Should you invest in solar panels in Fresno? Well, the answer is 100% yes. While there may be a lot of factors, the local climate in Fresno, is perfect for generating solar energy.
Also, there are many solar companies which you can get the most affordable prices. The plus factor is there are rebates and savings in the long run. So, solar panels are pretty worth the investment in Fresno.