Solar Panel Cost Guide in Albia, IA (2023 Update)
- Albia Solar Installation Cost: $18,420
- 25-Year Savings: $30,552
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Albia
We break down average solar pricing in Albia.
In Albia, solar panels cost about 2.77 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 9.5-kW system would cost about $18,420 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Albia based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Albia can save about $20,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Albia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,462 |
| 3 years | $-12,544 |
| 5 years | $-8,626 |
| 7 years | $-4,708 |
| 9 years | $-790 |
| 11 years | $3,128 |
| 13 years | $7,045 |
| 15 years | $10,963 |
| 17 years | $14,881 |
| 19 years | $18,799 |
| 21 years | $22,717 |
| 23 years | $26,635 |
| 25 years | $30,552 |
Top Solar Installers in Albia
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar installation company since installing a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Plus, if you're not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Albia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Albia
For many Albia homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Albia, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,770. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted 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 limited roof space 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 additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Albia to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Albia is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $18,837 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $25,426 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $32,171 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $39,070 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $46,125 | 9.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $53,335 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $60,699 | 8.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $68,219 | 8.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Albia, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Albia, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Albia?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Albia have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
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 uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.