Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mcrae Helena, GA (2023 Update)
- Mcrae Helena Solar Installation Cost: $11,531
- 25-Year Savings: $25,168
- Payback Period: 7.9 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mcrae Helena
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Mcrae Helena.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Mcrae Helena it's 2.55 per watt. The average Mcrae Helena 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.
These figures are only estimates, and how much solar costs for you will most likely vary based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $22,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Mcrae Helena
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,063 |
| 3 years | $-7,127 |
| 5 years | $-4,191 |
| 7 years | $-1,255 |
| 9 years | $1,681 |
| 11 years | $4,616 |
| 13 years | $7,552 |
| 15 years | $10,488 |
| 17 years | $13,424 |
| 19 years | $16,360 |
| 21 years | $19,296 |
| 23 years | $22,232 |
| 25 years | $25,168 |
Top Solar Installers in Mcrae Helena
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Mcrae Helena:
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 Mcrae Helena
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mcrae Helena
The cost of installing a solar system in Mcrae Helena can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $2,550. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Mcrae Helena, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Mcrae Helena, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to factor 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 the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Mcrae Helena is the company you hire to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and choose a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.
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 | $22,952 | 8.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $30,889 | 8.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $38,968 | 7.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $47,190 | 7.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $55,554 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $64,062 | 7.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $72,712 | 7.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $81,505 | 7.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and 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.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over 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 if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Mcrae Helena, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mcrae Helena?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Mcrae Helena?
A solar panel system isn't free in Mcrae Helena, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How will installing solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't opt for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing solar panels."
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.