Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ruskin, FL (2024 Update)
- Ruskin Solar Installation Cost: $12,394
- 25-Year Savings: $16,622
- Payback Period: 11.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ruskin
We break down average solar pricing in Ruskin.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Ruskin it’s 3 per watt.The average Ruskin homeowner needs a 5.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,394 with the federal tax credit, or $17,723 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Ruskin depending on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.With typical savings of about $19,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Ruskin find going solar can pay off big.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ruskin
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,052 |
| 3 years | $-8,370 |
| 5 years | $-5,687 |
| 7 years | $-3,004 |
| 9 years | $-321 |
| 11 years | $2,362 |
| 13 years | $5,045 |
| 15 years | $7,728 |
| 17 years | $10,411 |
| 19 years | $13,094 |
| 21 years | $15,776 |
| 23 years | $18,459 |
| 25 years | $21,142 |
Top Solar Installers in Ruskin
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are a number of 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 Ruskin
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ruskin
While the average cost of a solar system in Ruskin is $12,394, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
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 with better efficiency or power generation require 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 $3,210.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Ruskin, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Ruskin, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Ruskin know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $14,686 | 12.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.27 | $18,336 | $19,941 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.21 | $22,470 | $25,375 | 11.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.15 | $26,425 | $30,990 | 11.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.08 | $30,200 | $36,784 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.02 | $33,795 | $42,757 | 11.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.95 | $37,210 | $48,911 | 10.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.89 | $40,446 | $55,244 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Ruskin, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: It’s important to read your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system’s energy production.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Ruskin, FL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ruskin?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Ruskin?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Ruskin. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $956.90 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.