Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ward, AR (2023 Update)
- Ward Solar Installation Cost: $14,846
- 25-Year Savings: $22,633
- Payback Period: 9.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ward
We go over average solar pricing in Ward.
In Ward, solar panels cost about 2.54 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 8.3-kW system would cost about $14,846 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average homeowners in Ward see about $17,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Ward, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ward
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,347 |
| 3 years | $-10,349 |
| 5 years | $-7,350 |
| 7 years | $-4,352 |
| 9 years | $-1,354 |
| 11 years | $1,645 |
| 13 years | $4,643 |
| 15 years | $7,642 |
| 17 years | $10,640 |
| 19 years | $13,638 |
| 21 years | $16,637 |
| 23 years | $19,635 |
| 25 years | $22,633 |
Top Solar Installers in Ward
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Ward
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ward
There are a number of factors that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Ward, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,540 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Ward, where sunlight is 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Ward offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. 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 APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $15,826 | 10.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $21,386 | 10.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $27,088 | 9.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $32,933 | 9.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $38,919 | 9.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $45,048 | 9.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $51,319 | 9.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $57,733 | 8.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it's necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Ward, AR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ward?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Ward?
You can't get solar panels for free in Ward. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Ward have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.