Solar Panel Cost Guide in DeFuniak Springs, FL (2024 Update)

  • DeFuniak Springs Solar Installation Cost: $13,060
  • 25-Year Savings: $23,391
  • Payback Period: 9.7 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 DeFuniak Springs

Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in DeFuniak Springs.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in DeFuniak Springs, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.The average DeFuniak Springs homeowner needs a 5.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,060 with the federal tax credit, or $18,676 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely vary based on your energy needs and what company you go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on power bills.

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

Solar savings over time in DeFuniak Springs

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,301
3 years $-7,783
5 years $-4,264
7 years $-745
9 years $2,773
11 years $6,292
13 years $9,810
15 years $13,329
17 years $16,847
19 years $20,366
21 years $23,884
23 years $27,403
25 years $30,921

Top Solar Installers in DeFuniak Springs

When going solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since installing a solar system yourself can be a time-consuming project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in DeFuniak Springs, therefore optimizing your ROI.

If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:

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

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 DeFuniak Springs

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in DeFuniak Springs

For many DeFuniak Springs homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in DeFuniak Springs, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in DeFuniak Springs, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,210 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and type of equipment you choose 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 have a higher price tag 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 greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in DeFuniak Springs provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.Though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for DeFuniak Springs homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you pick will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total 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 can sometimes 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 $20,751 10.1 years
8 kW $3.27 $18,336 $28,027 9.9 years
10 kW $3.21 $22,470 $35,483 9.7 years
12 kW $3.15 $26,425 $43,119 9.5 years
14 kW $3.08 $30,200 $50,935 9.3 years
16 kW $3.02 $33,795 $58,930 9.1 years
18 kW $2.95 $37,210 $67,105 8.9 years
20 kW $2.89 $40,446 $75,460 8.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model of solar panels and the installation company 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
  • Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
  • Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the completion 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

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

EcoWatch's DeFuniak Springs, FL Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in DeFuniak Springs?

This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $16,050 for a 5-kW system and $32,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Are solar panels free in DeFuniak Springs?

Solar panels aren’t free in DeFuniak Springs, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.

Does DeFuniak Springs have a net metering program?

Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much 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.

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