Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bradenton, FL (2023 Update)
- Bradenton Solar Installation Cost: $9,687
- 25-Year Savings: $20,357
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bradenton
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Bradenton.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Bradenton it's 2.53 per watt. The average Bradenton homeowner needs a 5.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,687 with the federal tax credit, or $13,852 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more. With typical savings of about $21,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Bradenton find going solar can be quite rewarding.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Bradenton that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Bradenton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,486 |
| 3 years | $-6,082 |
| 5 years | $-3,679 |
| 7 years | $-1,275 |
| 9 years | $1,129 |
| 11 years | $3,532 |
| 13 years | $5,936 |
| 15 years | $8,339 |
| 17 years | $10,743 |
| 19 years | $13,146 |
| 21 years | $15,550 |
| 23 years | $17,953 |
| 25 years | $20,357 |
Top Solar Installers in Bradenton
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and expertise. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and bring down the cost of maintenance in the long run.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Bradenton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bradenton
There are a number of criteria that can influence 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 panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use 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 $2,530. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Bradenton, 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Bradenton offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Bradenton, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and go with the company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $21,879 | 8.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.58 | $14,451 | $29,455 | 8.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.53 | $17,710 | $37,173 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.48 | $20,827 | $45,033 | 7.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.43 | $23,802 | $53,034 | 7.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.38 | $26,636 | $61,177 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.33 | $29,328 | $69,462 | 7.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.28 | $31,878 | $77,888 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
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 Bradenton, FL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bradenton?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,650 for a 5-kW system and $25,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Bradenton?
You can't get solar panels for free in Bradenton. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Bradenton have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Bradenton?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.