Solar Panel Cost Guide in Benton, AR (2023 Update)
- Benton Solar Installation Cost: $14,953
- 25-Year Savings: $21,560
- Payback Period: 10.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Benton
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Benton.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Benton generally cost about 2.54. The average solar panel system size in Benton is around 8.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,953 for a solar installation, or $21,383 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Benton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,492 |
| 3 years | $-10,571 |
| 5 years | $-7,650 |
| 7 years | $-4,729 |
| 9 years | $-1,808 |
| 11 years | $1,113 |
| 13 years | $4,034 |
| 15 years | $6,955 |
| 17 years | $9,876 |
| 19 years | $12,797 |
| 21 years | $15,718 |
| 23 years | $18,639 |
| 25 years | $21,560 |
Top Solar Installers in Benton
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners opt to go with a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Benton, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Benton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Benton
For many Benton homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Benton, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Benton average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Benton offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Benton homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Benton, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.64 | $11,095 | $14,952 | 10.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $20,221 | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $25,631 | 10.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $31,184 | 10.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $36,879 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $42,717 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $48,697 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $54,819 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you go with.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Benton, AR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Benton?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,700 for a 5-kW system and $25,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Benton?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Benton?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.