Solar Panel Cost Guide in Arcadia, FL (2023 Update)
- Arcadia Solar Installation Cost: $9,677
- 25-Year Savings: $21,634
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Arcadia
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Arcadia.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Arcadia it's 2.53 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.5-kW system would cost about $9,670 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Arcadia homeowner can save around $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Arcadia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,573 |
| 3 years | $-9,364 |
| 5 years | $-9,156 |
| 7 years | $-8,947 |
| 9 years | $-8,738 |
| 11 years | $-8,529 |
| 13 years | $-8,321 |
| 15 years | $-8,112 |
| 17 years | $-7,903 |
| 19 years | $-7,694 |
| 21 years | $-7,486 |
| 23 years | $-7,277 |
| 25 years | $-7,068 |
Top Solar Installers in Arcadia
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for you.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Arcadia, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Arcadia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Arcadia
There are several factors that can determine your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,530 per kilowatt in Arcadia. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower 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 a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable option because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's a good idea to add 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 back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Arcadia have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $2.63 | $11,051 | $23,329 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.58 | $14,451 | $31,388 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.53 | $17,710 | $39,590 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.48 | $20,827 | $47,932 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.43 | $23,802 | $56,417 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.38 | $26,636 | $65,043 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.33 | $29,328 | $73,811 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.28 | $31,878 | $82,721 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Arcadia, FL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Arcadia?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,650 for a 5-kW system and $25,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Arcadia?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.