Solar Panel Cost Guide in Eastman, GA (2023 Update)
- Eastman Solar Installation Cost: $11,539
- 25-Year Savings: $25,378
- Payback Period: 7.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Eastman
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Eastman.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Eastman, the average cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. The average Eastman homeowner needs a 6.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,531 with the federal tax credit, or $16,489 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more. Despite the high upfront cost, the average Eastman homeowner can save around $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in Eastman for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Eastman
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,416 |
| 3 years | $-11,170 |
| 5 years | $-10,924 |
| 7 years | $-10,678 |
| 9 years | $-10,432 |
| 11 years | $-10,186 |
| 13 years | $-9,940 |
| 15 years | $-9,694 |
| 17 years | $-9,447 |
| 19 years | $-9,201 |
| 21 years | $-8,955 |
| 23 years | $-8,709 |
| 25 years | $-8,463 |
Top Solar Installers in Eastman
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Eastman
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Eastman
The cost of installing a solar system in Eastman can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Eastman, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type 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. Plus, if you want additional 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 financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Eastman, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you 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 installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Eastman, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $23,125 | 8.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $31,119 | 8.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $39,256 | 7.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $47,536 | 7.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $55,958 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $64,523 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $73,231 | 7.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $82,082 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the endurance of your solar system, checking if your installer 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
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 Eastman, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Eastman?
The average cost of solar panels in Eastman is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things 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 Eastman?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Do solar panels increase your property value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Eastman is currently $81,300, so you can expect a value of about $3,333 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Eastman is a worthwhile investment.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.