Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clarkston, GA (2023 Update)
- Clarkston Solar Installation Cost: $12,084
- 25-Year Savings: $23,576
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clarkston
We go over average solar pricing in Clarkston.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Clarkston typically cost around 2.55. The average solar panel system size in Clarkston is around 6.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,084 for a solar installation, or $17,280 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Clarkston can save around $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Clarkston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,658 |
| 3 years | $-7,805 |
| 5 years | $-4,952 |
| 7 years | $-2,100 |
| 9 years | $753 |
| 11 years | $3,606 |
| 13 years | $6,459 |
| 15 years | $9,312 |
| 17 years | $12,165 |
| 19 years | $15,018 |
| 21 years | $17,870 |
| 23 years | $20,723 |
| 25 years | $23,576 |
Top Solar Installers in Clarkston
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be challenging. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Clarkston:
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 Clarkston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clarkston
Although the average cost of a solar system in Clarkston is $12,084, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Clarkston, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Clarkston, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Clarkston, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Clarkston, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $20,470 | 8.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $27,579 | 8.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $34,831 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $42,226 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $49,763 | 8.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $57,444 | 8.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $65,267 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $73,232 | 7.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on 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: Different companies carry different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Clarkston, GA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Clarkston?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 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 higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Clarkston?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of 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 Clarkston have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Clarkston?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.