Solar Panel Cost Guide in Suncoast Estates, FL (2024 Update)

  • Suncoast Estates Solar Installation Cost: $12,004
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,299
  • Payback Period: 10.4 Years

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By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 2024

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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 Suncoast Estates

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Suncoast Estates.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Suncoast Estates generally cost around 3.The average Suncoast Estates homeowner needs a 5.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,004 with the federal tax credit, or $17,166 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

The true price you pay can go above or below the average in Suncoast Estates depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $20,000 over 20 years on energy bills.

For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Suncoast Estates

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-10,630
3 years$-7,883
5 years$-5,136
7 years$-2,388
9 years$359
11 years$3,106
13 years$5,853
15 years$8,601
17 years$11,348
19 years$14,095
21 years$16,842
23 years$19,589
25 years$22,337

Top Solar Installers in Suncoast Estates

Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra time and expertise. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your home.

Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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 Suncoast Estates

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Suncoast Estates

There are a number of factors that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Suncoast Estates, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,210 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.It’s a good idea 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 off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Suncoast Estates, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically 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 extra services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.34$14,021$18,28010.9 years
8 kW$3.27$18,336$24,73310.6 years
10 kW$3.21$22,470$31,36610.4 years
12 kW$3.15$26,425$38,17810.2 years
14 kW$3.08$30,200$45,17010.0 years
16 kW$3.02$33,795$52,3429.8 years
18 kW$2.95$37,210$59,6949.6 years
20 kW$2.89$40,446$67,2259.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you’d like to get plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.

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 Suncoast Estates, FL Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Suncoast Estates?

This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?

Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

How will having solar panels impact my property value?

Solar panels can increase your property’s value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing solar panels."

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.