Solar Panel Cost Guide in Marshalltown, IA (2024 Update)
- Marshalltown Solar Installation Cost: $26,974
- 25-Year Savings: $32,675
- Payback Period: 13.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Marshalltown
See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Marshalltown.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Marshalltown is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Marshalltown, most homeowners require a 9.6-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $26,974, or $38,573 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Marshalltown homeowner can save around $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Marshalltown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,257 |
| 3 years | $-21,824 |
| 5 years | $-18,391 |
| 7 years | $-14,958 |
| 9 years | $-11,525 |
| 11 years | $-8,092 |
| 13 years | $-4,659 |
| 15 years | $-1,226 |
| 17 years | $2,207 |
| 19 years | $5,640 |
| 21 years | $9,073 |
| 23 years | $12,506 |
| 25 years | $15,939 |
Top Solar Installers in Marshalltown
Many homeowners choose to use a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance over time.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Marshalltown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Marshalltown
The cost of installing a solar system in Marshalltown can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase 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 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 energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Marshalltown average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Marshalltown have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Marshalltown, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Marshalltown have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $14,520 | 13.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $19,809 | 13.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $25,322 | 13.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $31,060 | 12.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $37,023 | 12.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $43,210 | 12.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $49,622 | 12.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $56,259 | 11.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
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 Marshalltown, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Marshalltown?
The average cost of solar panels in Marshalltown 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Marshalltown?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Marshalltown, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.