Solar Panel Cost Guide in Marion, IA (2024 Update)

  • Marion Solar Installation Cost: $27,274
  • 25-Year Savings: $30,080
  • Payback Period: 13.9 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated June 24, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Marion

We go over average solar pricing in Marion.

The average cost of solar panels in Marion is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.7-kW system would cost about $27,274 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

How much you pay can go above or below the average in Marion depending on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Marion homeowners see about $19,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a personalized quote.

Solar savings over time in Marion

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-25,558
3 years$-22,125
5 years$-18,692
7 years$-15,259
9 years$-11,826
11 years$-8,393
13 years$-4,960
15 years$-1,527
17 years$1,906
19 years$5,339
21 years$8,772
23 years$12,205
25 years$15,638

Top Solar Installers in Marion

Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance over time.

There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Marion

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Marion

Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Marion: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Marion, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $4,010 for each additional kilowatt you need.The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Plus, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that’s in your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Marion provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.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 more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you select will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.17$17,516$12,69314.5 years
8 kW$4.09$22,905$17,37314.2 years
10 kW$4.01$28,070$22,27713.9 years
12 kW$3.93$33,010$27,40613.7 years
14 kW$3.85$37,726$32,76013.4 years
16 kW$3.77$42,217$38,33813.1 years
18 kW$3.69$46,484$44,14112.8 years
20 kW$3.61$50,526$50,16912.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Marion, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you’d like to install plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
  • Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Marion, IA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Marion?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Marion?

Solar panels aren’t free in Marion, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.

Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,006.95 per year.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.