Solar Panel Cost Guide in Longmont, CO (2025 Update)
- Longmont Solar Installation Cost: $14,670
- 25-Year Savings: $15,797
- Payback Period: 14.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Longmont
We break down average solar pricing in Longmont.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Longmont is 4 per watt.To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Longmont, most homeowners require a 5.3-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $14,670, or $20,978 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs will look different based on your specific situation and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Longmont see about $19,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Longmont
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-13,727 |
3 years | $-11,842 |
5 years | $-9,956 |
7 years | $-8,071 |
9 years | $-6,186 |
11 years | $-4,301 |
13 years | $-2,415 |
15 years | $-530 |
17 years | $1,355 |
19 years | $3,241 |
21 years | $5,126 |
23 years | $7,011 |
25 years | $8,896 |
Top Solar Installers in Longmont
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and knowledge. Because of that, most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar company as well, which can save you more money after your initial investment.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Longmont
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Longmont
There are several criteria that can play into your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Longmont, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,980 for each additional kilowatt you need.The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a solid choice because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Longmont homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Longmont are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $4.14 | $17,385 | $11,914 | 14.8 years |
8 kW | $4.06 | $22,734 | $16,331 | 14.5 years |
10 kW | $3.98 | $27,860 | $20,971 | 14.3 years |
12 kW | $3.90 | $32,763 | $25,834 | 14.0 years |
14 kW | $3.82 | $37,444 | $30,919 | 13.7 years |
16 kW | $3.74 | $41,901 | $36,228 | 13.4 years |
18 kW | $3.66 | $46,136 | $41,759 | 13.1 years |
20 kW | $3.58 | $50,148 | $47,514 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Longmont, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Longmont, CO Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Longmont?
The average cost of solar panels in Longmont is about $19,900 for a 5-kW system and $39,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Longmont?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Longmont. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Longmont?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to 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?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.