Solar Panel Cost Guide in Independence, IA (2024 Update)
- Independence Solar Installation Cost: $27,312
- 25-Year Savings: $27,973
- Payback Period: 14.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Independence
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Independence.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Independence is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.7-kW system would cost about $27,312 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of going solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Independence homeowners see about $18,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
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 | $-25,596 |
| 3 years | $-22,163 |
| 5 years | $-18,730 |
| 7 years | $-15,297 |
| 9 years | $-11,864 |
| 11 years | $-8,431 |
| 13 years | $-4,998 |
| 15 years | $-1,565 |
| 17 years | $1,868 |
| 19 years | $5,301 |
| 21 years | $8,734 |
| 23 years | $12,167 |
| 25 years | $15,600 |
Top Solar Installers in Independence
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra energy and handiness. That's one of the reasons most people choose a solar panel installer. Another perk of utilizing a solar company is that they can help you maximize your return of investment by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and helping you learn about local incentives you can take advantage of.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Independence
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Independence
There are several criteria that can play into your solar system 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
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use 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 $4,010.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. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Independence average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Independence homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Independence is the company you get to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fits within 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 | $4.17 | $17,516 | $11,367 | 15.2 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $15,606 | 14.9 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $20,069 | 14.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $24,756 | 14.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $29,668 | 14.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $34,804 | 13.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $40,166 | 13.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $45,751 | 13.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
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 Independence, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Independence?
The average cost of solar panels in Independence 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 stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Independence?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Independence. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Independence?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future energy 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 Independence?
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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having 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.