Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chatsworth, GA (2023 Update)
- Chatsworth Solar Installation Cost: $12,602
- 25-Year Savings: $20,835
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chatsworth
Here's how much it might cost to go solar in Chatsworth.
The average cost of a solar system in Chatsworth is 2.55 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Chatsworth is around 7.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,602 for a solar installation, or $18,021 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. With typical savings of about $18,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Chatsworth find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
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 Chatsworth
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,265 |
| 3 years | $-8,590 |
| 5 years | $-5,915 |
| 7 years | $-3,240 |
| 9 years | $-565 |
| 11 years | $2,110 |
| 13 years | $4,785 |
| 15 years | $7,460 |
| 17 years | $10,135 |
| 19 years | $12,810 |
| 21 years | $15,485 |
| 23 years | $18,160 |
| 25 years | $20,835 |
Top Solar Installers in Chatsworth
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a stressful project, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Chatsworth
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chatsworth
The cost of installing a solar system in Chatsworth can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,550 per kilowatt in Chatsworth. The brand and type 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 are often more expensive 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Chatsworth to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $17,263 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $23,303 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $29,486 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $35,812 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $42,280 | 9.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $48,891 | 8.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $55,645 | 8.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $62,542 | 8.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose considerably affects 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the endurance of your solar panels, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Chatsworth, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Chatsworth?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Chatsworth?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Does Chatsworth have a net metering program?
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 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 take a 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 cover 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.