Solar Panel Cost Guide in Vinings, GA (2023 Update)
- Vinings Solar Installation Cost: $12,271
- 25-Year Savings: $22,418
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated September 15, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Vinings
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Vinings.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Vinings, the average cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. Because a 6.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Vinings, the average price of going solar will be about $12,263 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Vinings homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Vinings homeowners see about $19,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Vinings
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,678 |
| 3 years | $-7,492 |
| 5 years | $-4,305 |
| 7 years | $-1,119 |
| 9 years | $2,068 |
| 11 years | $5,254 |
| 13 years | $8,441 |
| 15 years | $11,627 |
| 17 years | $14,813 |
| 19 years | $18,000 |
| 21 years | $21,186 |
| 23 years | $24,373 |
| 25 years | $27,559 |
Top Solar Installers in Vinings
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to use a solar installation company since handling can be a time-consuming project. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy usage, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. 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
See all of the solar companies in Vinings
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Vinings
Although the average cost of a solar system in Vinings is $12,263, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,550 per kilowatt in Vinings. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Vinings, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Vinings homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to 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 significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Vinings is the company you hire to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Vinings have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $19,137 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $25,801 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $32,609 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $39,559 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $46,652 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $53,887 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $61,266 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $68,787 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will affect not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want to install plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 Vinings, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Vinings?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Vinings have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.