Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fayetteville, AR (Mar 2023)
- Fayetteville Solar Installation Cost: $15,273
- 25-Year Savings: $19,763
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fayetteville
We go over average solar pricing in Fayetteville.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Fayetteville typically cost around 2.54. Using this figure, a typical 8.6-kW system would cost about $15,273 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more. Even with the high initial cost, the average Fayetteville homeowner can save around $16,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Fayetteville, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Fayetteville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,872 |
| 3 years | $-11,069 |
| 5 years | $-8,266 |
| 7 years | $-5,463 |
| 9 years | $-2,660 |
| 11 years | $143 |
| 13 years | $2,946 |
| 15 years | $5,749 |
| 17 years | $8,551 |
| 19 years | $11,354 |
| 21 years | $14,157 |
| 23 years | $16,960 |
| 25 years | $19,763 |
Top Solar Installers in Fayetteville
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra energy and expertise. That's one of the reasons most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also have access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for you.
Working with a licensed solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Fayetteville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fayetteville
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Fayetteville: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,540. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Fayetteville, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Fayetteville know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $13,387 | 11.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $18,134 | 11.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $23,023 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $28,054 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $33,228 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $38,544 | 10.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $44,002 | 10.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $49,602 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, such as:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from past customers.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you choose.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Fayetteville, AR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Fayetteville?
The average cost of solar panels in Fayetteville is about $12,700 for a 5-kW system and $25,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Fayetteville?
Solar panels aren't free in Fayetteville, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Fayetteville?
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 energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.