Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Lauderdale, FL (2023 Update)
- North Lauderdale Solar Installation Cost: $9,524
- 25-Year Savings: $19,635
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Lauderdale
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in North Lauderdale.
The average cost of a solar system in North Lauderdale is 2.53 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in North Lauderdale, most homeowners require a 5.4-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,528, or $13,625 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you may vary based on your specific situation and what company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in North Lauderdale see about $21,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in North Lauderdale that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in North Lauderdale
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,150 |
| 3 years | $-5,403 |
| 5 years | $-2,656 |
| 7 years | $91 |
| 9 years | $2,839 |
| 11 years | $5,586 |
| 13 years | $8,333 |
| 15 years | $11,080 |
| 17 years | $13,827 |
| 19 years | $16,575 |
| 21 years | $19,322 |
| 23 years | $22,069 |
| 25 years | $24,816 |
Top Solar Installers in North Lauderdale
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 North Lauderdale
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Lauderdale
There are a number of criteria that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production use 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 $2,530. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 a small roof 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. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in North Lauderdale have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panels can affect how much it costs. North Lauderdale's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $21,481 | 8.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.58 | $14,451 | $28,925 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.53 | $17,710 | $36,510 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.48 | $20,827 | $44,237 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.43 | $23,802 | $52,106 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.38 | $26,636 | $60,117 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.33 | $29,328 | $68,269 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.28 | $31,878 | $76,562 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Contract: When looking through your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- 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 system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
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 North Lauderdale, FL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Lauderdale?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in North Lauderdale?
Solar panels aren't free in North Lauderdale, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in North Lauderdale?
Though 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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had 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.