Solar Panel Cost Guide in Longmont, CO (2023 Update)
- Longmont Solar Installation Cost: $9,915
- 25-Year Savings: $15,797
- Payback Period: 9.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Longmont
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Longmont.
The average cost of solar panels in Longmont is 2.69 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Longmont is around 5.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,923 for a solar installation, or $14,190 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $19,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a personalized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Longmont
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,829 |
| 3 years | $-9,658 |
| 5 years | $-9,486 |
| 7 years | $-9,315 |
| 9 years | $-9,143 |
| 11 years | $-8,972 |
| 13 years | $-8,801 |
| 15 years | $-8,629 |
| 17 years | $-8,458 |
| 19 years | $-8,286 |
| 21 years | $-8,115 |
| 23 years | $-7,944 |
| 25 years | $-7,772 |
Top Solar Installers in Longmont
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar company since handling can be a time-consuming project. The expertise that solar installers offer can be helpful as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Longmont
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Longmont
There are a number of criteria that can influence 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
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 crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The brand and kind of equipment you get 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 come at a higher price 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Longmont have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Longmont, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for 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 | $2.80 | $11,750 | $17,549 | 10.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $23,699 | 9.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $30,001 | 9.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $36,453 | 9.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $43,056 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $49,809 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $56,713 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $63,768 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Longmont, CO Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Longmont?
The average cost of solar panels in Longmont is about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Longmont have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility 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?
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 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.