Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pensacola, FL (2023 Update)
- Pensacola Solar Installation Cost: $10,303
- 25-Year Savings: $25,535
- Payback Period: 7.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pensacola
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Pensacola.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Pensacola typically cost around 2.53. The average Pensacola homeowner needs a 5.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $10,307 with the federal tax credit, or $14,739 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Pensacola based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Even with the significant initial cost, the average Pensacola homeowner can save about $23,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Pensacola
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,544 |
| 3 years | $-5,025 |
| 5 years | $-1,507 |
| 7 years | $2,012 |
| 9 years | $5,530 |
| 11 years | $9,049 |
| 13 years | $12,567 |
| 15 years | $16,086 |
| 17 years | $19,605 |
| 19 years | $23,123 |
| 21 years | $26,642 |
| 23 years | $30,160 |
| 25 years | $33,679 |
Top Solar Installers in Pensacola
Trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Because solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Pensacola
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pensacola
The cost of installing a solar system in Pensacola can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production require 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 kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Pensacola average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Pensacola, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Pensacola have more knowledge 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 end up saving you 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 | $2.63 | $11,051 | $25,911 | 7.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.58 | $14,451 | $34,831 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.53 | $17,710 | $43,893 | 7.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.48 | $20,827 | $53,097 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.43 | $23,802 | $62,442 | 6.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.38 | $26,636 | $71,929 | 6.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.33 | $29,328 | $81,558 | 6.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.28 | $31,878 | $91,328 | 6.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your 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: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Pensacola, FL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Pensacola?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Pensacola?
You can't get solar panels for free in Pensacola. However, you may still be able to get 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 you sell solar power back to the grid in Pensacola?
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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Pensacola?
Although 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.