Solar Panel Cost Guide in Le Claire, IA (2023 Update)
- Le Claire Solar Installation Cost: $18,711
- 25-Year Savings: $22,088
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Le Claire
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Le Claire.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Le Claire, the average cost of solar panels is 2.77 per watt. Since a 9.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Le Claire, the average price of going solar will be about $18,711 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Le Claire homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Le Claire homeowner can save about $16,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Le Claire
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,079 |
| 3 years | $-13,815 |
| 5 years | $-10,551 |
| 7 years | $-7,287 |
| 9 years | $-4,024 |
| 11 years | $-760 |
| 13 years | $2,504 |
| 15 years | $5,768 |
| 17 years | $9,032 |
| 19 years | $12,296 |
| 21 years | $15,560 |
| 23 years | $18,824 |
| 25 years | $22,088 |
Top Solar Installers in Le Claire
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra effort and expertise. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Le Claire
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Le Claire
Although the average cost of a solar system in Le Claire is $18,711, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel 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 some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production require 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 want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Le Claire, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Le Claire is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you'll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment 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 | $13,260 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $17,991 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $22,876 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $27,917 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $33,113 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $38,463 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $43,969 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $49,630 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy 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.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
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 Le Claire, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Le Claire?
The average cost of solar panels in Le Claire is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going 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.
Is it worth going solar in Le Claire?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of 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 usage and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 account for 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.