Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fort Collins, CO (2023 Update)
- Fort Collins Solar Installation Cost: $10,169
- 25-Year Savings: $14,989
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fort Collins
See how much it might cost to go solar in Fort Collins.
In Fort Collins, solar panels cost about 2.69 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 5.4-kW system would cost about $10,168 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs will most likely look different based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $18,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Fort Collins
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,085 |
| 3 years | $-9,918 |
| 5 years | $-9,750 |
| 7 years | $-9,582 |
| 9 years | $-9,415 |
| 11 years | $-9,247 |
| 13 years | $-9,079 |
| 15 years | $-8,911 |
| 17 years | $-8,744 |
| 19 years | $-8,576 |
| 21 years | $-8,408 |
| 23 years | $-8,241 |
| 25 years | $-8,073 |
Top Solar Installers in Fort Collins
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to use a solar company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a time-consuming project. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Fort Collins
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fort Collins
There are a number of criteria that can affect your total 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
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately ascertain 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 bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Fort Collins average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Fort Collins have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Fort Collins, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Fort Collins are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $2.80 | $11,750 | $16,200 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $21,902 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $27,754 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $33,756 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $39,910 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $46,214 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $52,668 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $59,273 | 9.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Fort Collins, CO Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fort Collins?
The average cost of solar panels in Fort Collins is about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Fort Collins?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Does Fort Collins have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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.