Solar Panel Cost Guide in Longmont, CO (2024 Update)

  • Longmont Solar Installation Cost: $14,670
  • 25-Year Savings: $15,797
  • Payback Period: 14.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

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.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, 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 on your own, it takes extra energy and expertise. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.

If you're looking for a solar company in Longmont, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 many factors that can play into 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

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,980.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Longmont, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Longmont, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Longmont, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 $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

The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
  • Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar panel system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
  • Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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

How much does it cost to install 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 real cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Are solar panels free in Longmont?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Longmont. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Does Longmont have a net metering program?

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 give you credit toward your future energy 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.

Follow us