Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clayton, DE (2024 Update)

  • Clayton Solar Installation Cost: $14,236
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,963
  • Payback Period: 11.2 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

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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 Clayton

Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Clayton.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Clayton, the average cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Clayton is around 6.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,236 for a solar installation, or $20,357 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Clayton based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.With typical savings of about $18,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Clayton find going solar has a decent ROI.

To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Clayton

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-12,835
3 years$-10,033
5 years$-7,231
7 years$-4,429
9 years$-1,627
11 years$1,175
13 years$3,978
15 years$6,780
17 years$9,582
19 years$12,384
21 years$15,186
23 years$17,988
25 years$20,790

Top Solar Installers in Clayton

Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since trying to install solar panels yourself can be challenging. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance in the long run.

Working with a licensed solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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

Solar Veteran

Trinity Solar

★★★★★
4.0
  • Many financing options
  • Family-owned and -operated
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Limited service area
  • Relatively short workmanship warranty

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

See all of the solar companies in Clayton

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clayton

Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Clayton: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,090.The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to consider 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 into a solar system that’s in your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Clayton to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you pick will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.21$13,497$15,53811.6 years
8 kW$3.15$17,650$21,06311.4 years
10 kW$3.09$21,630$26,76111.2 years
12 kW$3.03$25,437$32,63311.0 years
14 kW$2.97$29,071$38,67710.7 years
16 kW$2.90$32,532$44,89410.5 years
18 kW$2.84$35,819$51,28510.3 years
20 kW$2.78$38,934$57,84810.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.

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

Solar Veteran

Trinity Solar

★★★★★
4.0
  • Many financing options
  • Family-owned and -operated
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Limited service area
  • Relatively short workmanship warranty

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's Clayton, DE Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clayton?

The average cost of solar panels in Clayton is about $15,450 for a 5-kW system and $30,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Can you get solar panels for free in Clayton?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Clayton, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Can solar panels completely eradicate my energy bills?

It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Clayton, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of 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 buy 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.