Solar Panel Cost Guide in Manchester, IA (2024 Update)
- Manchester Solar Installation Cost: $27,368
- 25-Year Savings: $30,505
- Payback Period: 13.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Manchester
See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Manchester.
In Manchester, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 9.7-kW system would cost about $27,368 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Manchester can save around $19,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Manchester, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Manchester
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,652 |
| 3 years | $-22,219 |
| 5 years | $-18,786 |
| 7 years | $-15,353 |
| 9 years | $-11,920 |
| 11 years | $-8,487 |
| 13 years | $-5,054 |
| 15 years | $-1,621 |
| 17 years | $1,812 |
| 19 years | $5,245 |
| 21 years | $8,678 |
| 23 years | $12,111 |
| 25 years | $15,544 |
Top Solar Installers in Manchester
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra energy and know-how. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a licensed solar installer 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 Manchester
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Manchester
The cost of installing a solar system in Manchester can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $4,010 per kilowatt in Manchester.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Manchester homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Manchester, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $12,890 | 14.4 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $17,636 | 14.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $22,607 | 13.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $27,802 | 13.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $33,221 | 13.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $38,865 | 13.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $44,734 | 12.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $50,827 | 12.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Manchester, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Well-established companies 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Manchester, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Manchester?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Manchester?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
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 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 install 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.