Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fort Oglethorpe, GA (2024 Update)
- Fort Oglethorpe Solar Installation Cost: $18,325
- 25-Year Savings: $19,495
- Payback Period: 14.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fort Oglethorpe
We go over average solar pricing in Fort Oglethorpe.
In Fort Oglethorpe, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Fort Oglethorpe is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $18,325 for a solar installation, or $26,205 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Fort Oglethorpe homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $17,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Fort Oglethorpe
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,839 |
| 3 years | $-13,866 |
| 5 years | $-10,894 |
| 7 years | $-7,921 |
| 9 years | $-4,948 |
| 11 years | $-1,976 |
| 13 years | $997 |
| 15 years | $3,969 |
| 17 years | $6,942 |
| 19 years | $9,914 |
| 21 years | $12,887 |
| 23 years | $15,860 |
| 25 years | $18,832 |
Top Solar Installers in Fort Oglethorpe
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and expertise. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for 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 licensed 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
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Fort Oglethorpe
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fort Oglethorpe
There are several criteria that can determine your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Fort Oglethorpe, 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 consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,740 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Fort Oglethorpe homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
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 installation companies in Fort Oglethorpe, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.89 | $16,336 | $11,085 | 14.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $15,198 | 14.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $19,522 | 14.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $24,054 | 14.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $28,796 | 13.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $33,748 | 13.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $38,909 | 13.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $44,279 | 12.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
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
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Fort Oglethorpe, GA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fort Oglethorpe?
The average cost of solar panels in Fort Oglethorpe is about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Fort Oglethorpe?
Solar panels can be a great investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.