Solar Panel Cost Guide in Goulds, FL (2023 Update)

  • Goulds Solar Installation Cost: $9,433
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,726
  • Payback Period: 8.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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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 Goulds

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Goulds.

In Goulds, solar panels cost about 2.53 per watt on average. Because a 5.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Goulds, the average price of going solar will be about $9,439 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Goulds homeowners see about $21,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Goulds that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.

Solar savings over time in Goulds

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,059
3 years $-5,312
5 years $-2,564
7 years $183
9 years $2,930
11 years $5,677
13 years $8,425
15 years $11,172
17 years $13,919
19 years $16,666
21 years $19,413
23 years $22,161
25 years $24,908

Top Solar Installers in Goulds

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money after your initial investment.

There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:

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 Goulds

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Goulds

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

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have 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. 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 are often more expensive 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 additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Goulds, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Goulds homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Goulds, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Companies that 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 choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also is 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 $21,797 8.4 years
8 kW $2.58 $14,451 $29,346 8.2 years
10 kW $2.53 $17,710 $37,036 8.1 years
12 kW $2.48 $20,827 $44,869 7.9 years
14 kW $2.43 $23,802 $52,843 7.8 years
16 kW $2.38 $26,636 $60,958 7.6 years
18 kW $2.33 $29,328 $69,216 7.4 years
20 kW $2.28 $31,878 $77,615 7.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.

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 Goulds, FL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Goulds?

The average cost of solar panels in Goulds is about $12,650 for a 5-kW system and $25,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Does Goulds have a net metering program?

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

How long do solar panels last in Goulds?

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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide 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.

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