Solar Panel Cost Guide in Altoona, IA (2024 Update)
- Altoona Solar Installation Cost: $26,849
- 25-Year Savings: $-152
- Payback Period: 16.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Altoona
We break down average solar pricing in Altoona.
The average cost of a solar system in Altoona is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Altoona, most homeowners require a 9.6-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $26,849, or $38,394 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Altoona
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,781 |
| 3 years | $-23,646 |
| 5 years | $-21,510 |
| 7 years | $-19,374 |
| 9 years | $-17,238 |
| 11 years | $-15,103 |
| 13 years | $-12,967 |
| 15 years | $-10,831 |
| 17 years | $-8,695 |
| 19 years | $-6,559 |
| 21 years | $-4,424 |
| 23 years | $-2,288 |
| 25 years | $-152 |
Top Solar Installers in Altoona
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Companies can also have access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for you.
Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 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 Altoona
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Altoona
There are a number of factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Altoona, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Altoona, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 | $4.17 | $17,516 | $8,087 | 17.1 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $11,232 | 16.8 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $14,602 | 16.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $18,196 | 16.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $22,014 | 15.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $26,057 | 15.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $30,325 | 15.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $34,817 | 14.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of 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:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies have different panels.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 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 Altoona, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Altoona?
The average cost of solar panels in Altoona is about $20,050 for a 5-kW system and $40,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Altoona?
Solar panels aren’t free in Altoona, 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.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $853.43 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power 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 usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.