Solar Panel Cost Guide in Folkston, GA (2023 Update)
- Folkston Solar Installation Cost: $11,406
- 25-Year Savings: $24,708
- Payback Period: 7.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Folkston
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Folkston.
In Folkston, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. The average Folkston homeowner needs a 6.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,406 with the federal tax credit, or $16,311 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you may vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Folkston see about $21,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Folkston that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Folkston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,813 |
| 3 years | $-6,627 |
| 5 years | $-3,440 |
| 7 years | $-254 |
| 9 years | $2,933 |
| 11 years | $6,119 |
| 13 years | $9,306 |
| 15 years | $12,492 |
| 17 years | $15,679 |
| 19 years | $18,865 |
| 21 years | $22,051 |
| 23 years | $25,238 |
| 25 years | $28,424 |
Top Solar Installers in Folkston
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Folkston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Folkston
There are many criteria that can play into 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 size of the solar system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,550. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Folkston, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Folkston, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric car 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 | $22,771 | 8.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $30,647 | 8.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $38,666 | 7.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $46,827 | 7.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $55,132 | 7.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $63,579 | 7.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $72,169 | 7.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $80,901 | 7.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will impact not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through completely 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 if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Folkston, GA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Folkston?
The average cost of solar panels in Folkston 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Folkston?
A solar panel system isn't free in Folkston, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,130.31 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Folkston?
On average, solar panels can last 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 amount 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.