Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bethel Heights, AR (Mar 2023)

  • Bethel Heights Solar Installation Cost: $15,237
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,034
  • Payback Period: 10.5 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated March 14, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bethel Heights

Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Bethel Heights.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Bethel Heights typically cost around 2.54. Using this figure, a typical 8.6-kW system would cost about $15,237 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs may differ based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Bethel Heights homeowners see about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Bethel Heights

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-13,787
3 years $-10,885
5 years $-7,983
7 years $-5,082
9 years $-2,180
11 years $722
13 years $3,624
15 years $6,525
17 years $9,427
19 years $12,329
21 years $15,230
23 years $18,132
25 years $21,034

Top Solar Installers in Bethel Heights

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to use a solar company since installing a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

Working with a vetted solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Bethel Heights

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bethel Heights

For many Bethel Heights homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Bethel Heights, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Bethel Heights, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,540 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Bethel Heights, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Bethel Heights, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Bethel Heights is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.

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 $14,298 10.9 years
8 kW $2.59 $14,508 $19,349 10.7 years
10 kW $2.54 $17,780 $24,541 10.5 years
12 kW $2.49 $20,909 $29,876 10.3 years
14 kW $2.44 $23,896 $35,354 10.1 years
16 kW $2.39 $26,741 $40,973 9.9 years
18 kW $2.34 $29,444 $46,735 9.7 years
20 kW $2.29 $32,004 $52,639 9.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
  • Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
  • Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the project timeline.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Bethel Heights, AR Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bethel Heights?

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly 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 usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Bethel Heights?

A solar panel system isn't free in Bethel Heights, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Does Bethel Heights have a net metering program?

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 power bills.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.

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