Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ames, IA (2024 Update)
- Ames Solar Installation Cost: $26,885
- 25-Year Savings: $29,889
- Payback Period: 13.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ames
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Ames.
The average cost of solar panels in Ames is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.6-kW system would cost about $26,885 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Ames homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With average savings of about $19,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Ames find going solar can be quite rewarding.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ames
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,427 |
| 3 years | $-22,512 |
| 5 years | $-19,596 |
| 7 years | $-16,681 |
| 9 years | $-13,766 |
| 11 years | $-10,850 |
| 13 years | $-7,935 |
| 15 years | $-5,019 |
| 17 years | $-2,104 |
| 19 years | $811 |
| 21 years | $3,727 |
| 23 years | $6,642 |
| 25 years | $9,557 |
Top Solar Installers in Ames
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installation companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can benefit from and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Ames:
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 Ames
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ames
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Ames is $26,885, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,010.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Ames offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can influence how much it costs. Ames’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $12,842 | 14.4 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $17,572 | 14.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $22,526 | 13.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $27,705 | 13.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $33,108 | 13.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $38,736 | 13.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $44,589 | 12.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $50,666 | 12.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
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 Ames, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ames?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,050 for a 5-kW system and $40,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Ames?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Does Ames have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Ames?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had 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.