Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rocky Ford, CO (2023 Update)
- Rocky Ford Solar Installation Cost: $9,172
- 25-Year Savings: $27,936
- Payback Period: 6.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rocky Ford
Here's how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Rocky Ford.
The average cost of a solar system in Rocky Ford is 2.69 per watt. Since a 4.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Rocky Ford, the average price of going solar will be about $9,170 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you may differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Rocky Ford can save around $29,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Rocky Ford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,786 |
| 3 years | $-5,015 |
| 5 years | $-2,244 |
| 7 years | $527 |
| 9 years | $3,298 |
| 11 years | $6,069 |
| 13 years | $8,840 |
| 15 years | $11,611 |
| 17 years | $14,382 |
| 19 years | $17,153 |
| 21 years | $19,924 |
| 23 years | $22,695 |
| 25 years | $25,466 |
Top Solar Installers in Rocky Ford
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra labor and know-how. For that reason, most people choose a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Rocky Ford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rocky Ford
The cost of installing a solar system in Rocky Ford can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,690 per kilowatt in Rocky Ford. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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 over time on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Rocky Ford average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Rocky Ford homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Rocky Ford is the company you get to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $33,961 | 6.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $45,583 | 6.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $57,355 | 6.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $69,278 | 6.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $81,351 | 5.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $93,576 | 5.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $105,950 | 5.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $118,476 | 5.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer 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: Make sure you're aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points 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 in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Rocky Ford, CO Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Rocky Ford?
The average cost of solar panels in Rocky Ford 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 such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually 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.