Solar Panel Cost Guide in McDonough, GA (2025 Update)
- McDonough Solar Installation Cost: $17,462
- 25-Year Savings: $19,449
- Payback Period: 13.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in McDonough
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in McDonough.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in McDonough it’s 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in McDonough, most homeowners require a 6.7-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $17,462, or $24,971 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in McDonough can save about $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
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Solar savings over time in McDonough
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,869 |
| 3 years | $-12,682 |
| 5 years | $-9,496 |
| 7 years | $-6,309 |
| 9 years | $-3,123 |
| 11 years | $64 |
| 13 years | $3,250 |
| 15 years | $6,437 |
| 17 years | $9,623 |
| 19 years | $12,810 |
| 21 years | $15,996 |
| 23 years | $19,183 |
| 25 years | $22,369 |
Top Solar Installers in McDonough
Many homeowners choose to use a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels yourself can be hard. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
See all of the solar companies in McDonough
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in McDonough
For many McDonough homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in McDonough, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,740 per kilowatt in McDonough.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the McDonough average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in McDonough have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk 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 | $3.89 | $16,336 | $11,869 | 14.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $16,244 | 14.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $20,828 | 13.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $25,622 | 13.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $30,626 | 13.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $35,839 | 13.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $41,261 | 12.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $46,893 | 12.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly influences 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:
- Reputation: Solar system 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.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
EcoWatch's McDonough, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in McDonough?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in McDonough?
Solar panels aren’t free in McDonough, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Is it worth going solar in McDonough?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already reasonably 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 usage and the average daily 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 install 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.