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

  • Windermere Solar Installation Cost: $9,687
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,736
  • Payback Period: 8.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Windermere

We break down average solar pricing in Windermere.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Windermere typically cost about 2.53. Because a 5.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Windermere, the average price of going solar will be about $9,687 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Windermere homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Windermere can save about $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

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

Solar savings over time in Windermere

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,510
3 years $-6,157
5 years $-3,803
7 years $-1,449
9 years $905
11 years $3,259
13 years $5,613
15 years $7,967
17 years $10,321
19 years $12,675
21 years $15,029
23 years $17,382
25 years $19,736

Top Solar Installers in Windermere

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for your home.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Windermere

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Windermere

There are many criteria that can determine your 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

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater 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 brand and kind of equipment you choose 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 extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Windermere, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Windermere, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — 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 find a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for 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 $21,197 8.6 years
8 kW $2.58 $14,451 $28,546 8.4 years
10 kW $2.53 $17,710 $36,037 8.2 years
12 kW $2.48 $20,827 $43,670 8.1 years
14 kW $2.43 $23,802 $51,444 7.9 years
16 kW $2.38 $26,636 $59,360 7.7 years
18 kW $2.33 $29,328 $67,417 7.6 years
20 kW $2.28 $31,878 $75,617 7.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: If you're worried about the endurance of your solar panels, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.

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 Windermere, FL Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Windermere is about $12,650 for a 5-kW system and $25,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Windermere?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.

Is it worth going solar in Windermere?

Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.

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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