Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carrollwood, FL (2024 Update)
- Carrollwood Solar Installation Cost: $12,394
- 25-Year Savings: $16,463
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Carrollwood
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Carrollwood.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Carrollwood, the average cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 5.5-kW system would cost about $12,394 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $19,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Carrollwood for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Carrollwood
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,069 |
| 3 years | $-8,418 |
| 5 years | $-5,767 |
| 7 years | $-3,116 |
| 9 years | $-466 |
| 11 years | $2,185 |
| 13 years | $4,836 |
| 15 years | $7,486 |
| 17 years | $10,137 |
| 19 years | $12,788 |
| 21 years | $15,439 |
| 23 years | $18,089 |
| 25 years | $20,740 |
Top Solar Installers in Carrollwood
Installing solar panels on your own can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Carrollwood
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carrollwood
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Carrollwood is $12,394, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
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 generation need 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 $3,210.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Carrollwood homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Carrollwood, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.34 | $14,021 | $14,513 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.27 | $18,336 | $19,710 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.21 | $22,470 | $25,087 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.15 | $26,425 | $30,643 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.08 | $30,200 | $36,380 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.02 | $33,795 | $42,296 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.95 | $37,210 | $48,392 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.89 | $40,446 | $54,667 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Carrollwood, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page 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.
- Contract: Even 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 the terms of the warranty.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Carrollwood, FL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Carrollwood?
The average cost of solar panels in Carrollwood is about $16,050 for a 5-kW system and $32,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Carrollwood?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
How will solar panels impact my property value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Carrollwood is currently $431,809, which means you can expect a value of about $17,704 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Carrollwood is a rewarding investment.
How long do solar panels last in Carrollwood?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.