Solar Panel Cost Guide in Independence, IA (Mar 2023)
- Independence Solar Installation Cost: $18,866
- 25-Year Savings: $27,973
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Independence
We go over average solar pricing in Independence.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Independence, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.77 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Independence is around 9.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $18,866 for a solar installation, or $26,978 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you go with. Even with the large initial cost, the average Independence homeowner can save about $18,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in Independence, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Independence
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,993 |
| 3 years | $-13,246 |
| 5 years | $-9,499 |
| 7 years | $-5,751 |
| 9 years | $-2,004 |
| 11 years | $1,743 |
| 13 years | $5,490 |
| 15 years | $9,237 |
| 17 years | $12,984 |
| 19 years | $16,732 |
| 21 years | $20,479 |
| 23 years | $24,226 |
| 25 years | $27,973 |
Top Solar Installers in Independence
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Independence
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Independence
Although the average cost of a solar system in Independence is $18,866, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,770. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose 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 electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Independence average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Independence provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Independence, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $16,784 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $22,689 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $28,749 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $34,964 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $41,334 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $47,859 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $54,540 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $61,375 | 9.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar panel system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Independence, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Independence?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 extra 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 cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Independence?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Independence?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.