How Much Does It Cost to Install Solar Panels
Do you save money with solar panels?
The truth is a lot of people have gotten solar panels over the past few years. In fact, the number of solar panels is expected to continue increasing by 2030.
Many people have gotten into solar energy because it’s clean energy and doesn’t cost a lot to use. Solar energy is much more affordable now than ever before.
But how affordable? Well, in this article, we are going to break down the cost of when you install solar panels so you might consider getting them for your home.
Solar Panel Installation Average Costs
The average cost to install solar panels is around $16,870 to $23,170. Depending on whether solar incentives are available, installation costs could become significantly lower.
If you are installing solar panels on your own, you should account for materials, freight, and any applicable permitting fees. You should also account for any additional hardware or software needed, as well as any costly wiring upgrades. All these costs can add up, so it’s important to do your research.
Different Types of Solar Panels and Their Costs
The cost of installing solar panels by this company depends mainly on the type of panel chosen. So below we are going to break down different types of panels and their costs:
Monocrystalline
Monocrystalline solar panels often come at a higher cost than other types of panels. Generally, installing monocrystalline solar panels for a home can range from $18,000 to $30,000. This cost includes the purchase of the panels, the installation of the panels, and the equipment needed.
To cut costs, it is important to research power companies, grants, and available tax credits. You need to see if any incentives are available to help lower the cost. You may even be able to do a power purchase agreement so that your solar panel installation and operation costs can defray over time.
Polycrystalline
The cost of installing polycrystalline solar panel arrays can vary depending on the site and the panel configuration. The average cost for a 6-kilowatt (kW) system with polycrystalline panels is around $10,000. But this cost can be reduced significantly when various incentives and discounts are taken into account.
So it’s important to contact a local installer for an exact cost estimate based on your specific location and needs. Labor costs for professional installation can account for 10-30% of the total cost.
It pays to shop around for the best prices on both panels and installation. The installation of these panels is generally cheaper than monocrystalline panels due to the cost of the materials used.
Thin-Film
Thin-film technology is a type of system that uses flexible, lightweight materials to produce solar energy. The nature of thin-film technology makes it one of the more cost-effective ways to install solar panels.
It typically costs between $3-$7 per watt to install thin-film solar panels, depending on the size and the number of panels needed. This can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for larger solar installations.
The cost of installation is usually recouped over time with savings on your electricity bill. This has the potential to significantly reduce an individual or business’s electricity bills over the long term.
How Much Can You Save on Utility Bills?
Installing solar panels can be a costly endeavor, depending on the size of the system and other factors. But after solar panel installation, the money you save on utility bills can be substantial.
States such as California, Oregon, and Texas offer tax credits and other incentives that help to offset the installation. Over time, you may even be able to save up to 75% on your monthly electricity bill.
Other Benefits of Solar Panels
Other benefits of installing solar panels include reducing your carbon footprint. Solar energy does not deplete the environment or cause damage to the planet in the same way that fossil fuels do. This means that you’re helping to reduce global warming.
They enable you to be independent of the electric power grid. Your home will not be affected by unexpected power outages, nor will you need to live in an area with electricity. Solar energy is a reliable and limitless energy source that you can use during natural disasters for extended periods.
Solar panels can also improve the value of your home if properly maintained. This means that you could be able to generate a return on your investment if you ever decide to move and sell the house.
How Can You Pay for Solar Panel Installation?
The most common way to pay for solar panel installation is by taking out a loan. Usually, a homeowner does this via a home loan or home equity line of credit or by taking advantage of a solar lease or zero-interest loan program.
You can also opt to pay for the solar panel installer by leasing. Leasing can reduce your initial out-of-pocket cost and allow you to spread out payments over the long term.
Or you could use a power purchase agreement. This is a process wherein you enter into a long-term contract with a solar company. They would then install and own the system while you agree to purchase the electricity generated by the panels at a predetermined rate.
Another option is to take advantage of any local Green Energy Coupon program or rebate. If you are a business owner, you may be able to access the energy-saving grant from your local energy service company or utility.
Other options include cash payment or paying off the entire cost upfront. You can also opt to take advantage of using government incentives such as tax credits and grants.
Go Green and Install Solar Panels in Your Home Now
Installing solar panels can be a great way to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your environmental footprint. With the various options available, the cost of solar panels will vary depending on several factors. To determine your costs to install solar panels, be sure to contact your local solar energy provider for an estimate.
For more articles like this, check out the rest of our site now.
