Solar Panel Cost Guide in Augusta, GA (2023 Update)
- Augusta Solar Installation Cost: $11,638
- 25-Year Savings: $24,596
- Payback Period: 8.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Augusta
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Augusta.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Augusta, the average cost of solar panels is 2.55 per watt. The average Augusta homeowner needs a 6.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,638 with the federal tax credit, or $16,642 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Augusta depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Augusta homeowner can save around $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in your area for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Augusta
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,189 |
| 3 years | $-7,290 |
| 5 years | $-4,391 |
| 7 years | $-1,493 |
| 9 years | $1,406 |
| 11 years | $4,305 |
| 13 years | $7,203 |
| 15 years | $10,102 |
| 17 years | $13,001 |
| 19 years | $15,900 |
| 21 years | $18,798 |
| 23 years | $21,697 |
| 25 years | $24,596 |
Top Solar Installers in Augusta
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and knowledge. That's why most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. In addition, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, using a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
Working with a professional solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 Augusta
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Augusta
For many Augusta homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Augusta, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,550 per kilowatt in Augusta. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Augusta, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Augusta, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Augusta have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $22,227 | 8.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $29,922 | 8.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $37,760 | 8.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $45,740 | 7.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $53,863 | 7.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $62,129 | 7.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $70,538 | 7.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $79,089 | 7.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Augusta, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have verifiable expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from previous customers.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 Augusta, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Augusta?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Augusta?
You can't get solar panels for free in Augusta. 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'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Augusta have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Augusta?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 higher level 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.