Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fort Walton Beach, FL (2024 Update)
- Fort Walton Beach Solar Installation Cost: $13,054
- 25-Year Savings: $23,663
- Payback Period: 9.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fort Walton Beach
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Fort Walton Beach.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Fort Walton Beach is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 5.8-kW system would cost about $13,054 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $22,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Fort Walton Beach find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Fort Walton Beach
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,294 |
| 3 years | $-7,776 |
| 5 years | $-4,257 |
| 7 years | $-739 |
| 9 years | $2,780 |
| 11 years | $6,298 |
| 13 years | $9,817 |
| 15 years | $13,335 |
| 17 years | $16,854 |
| 19 years | $20,372 |
| 21 years | $23,891 |
| 23 years | $27,409 |
| 25 years | $30,928 |
Top Solar Installers in Fort Walton Beach
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra labor and expertise. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Fort Walton Beach, therefore optimizing your ROI.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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 Fort Walton Beach
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fort Walton Beach
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Fort Walton Beach: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Fort Walton Beach average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Fort Walton Beach, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s wise to factor 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 how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Fort Walton Beach is the company you choose to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Fort Walton Beach know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $3.34 | $14,021 | $21,044 | 10.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.27 | $18,336 | $28,418 | 9.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.21 | $22,470 | $35,972 | 9.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.15 | $26,425 | $43,706 | 9.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.08 | $30,200 | $51,619 | 9.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.02 | $33,795 | $59,713 | 9.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.95 | $37,210 | $67,986 | 8.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.89 | $40,446 | $76,438 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on 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: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Fort Walton Beach, FL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fort Walton Beach?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Fort Walton Beach?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Fort Walton Beach. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,168.84 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Fort Walton Beach?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production 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.