Solar Panel Cost Guide in Waycross, GA (2024 Update)
- Waycross Solar Installation Cost: $16,764
- 25-Year Savings: $23,916
- Payback Period: 11.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Waycross
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Waycross.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Waycross it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Waycross is around 6.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,764 for a solar installation, or $23,973 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you may differ based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Waycross
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,171 |
| 3 years | $-11,984 |
| 5 years | $-8,798 |
| 7 years | $-5,611 |
| 9 years | $-2,425 |
| 11 years | $762 |
| 13 years | $3,948 |
| 15 years | $7,135 |
| 17 years | $10,321 |
| 19 years | $13,508 |
| 21 years | $16,694 |
| 23 years | $19,881 |
| 25 years | $23,067 |
Top Solar Installers in Waycross
Installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Another perk of going with a solar installer is that they can help you optimize your return of investment by reducing your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Waycross:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Waycross
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Waycross
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Waycross is $16,764, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Waycross average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Waycross, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Waycross, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for 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 | $3.89 | $16,336 | $16,783 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $22,797 | 12.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $29,020 | 11.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $35,452 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $42,094 | 11.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $48,945 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $56,005 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $63,275 | 10.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Waycross, GA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Waycross?
The average cost of solar panels in Waycross is about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Waycross 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 energy bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.