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

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 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 Marshalltown

See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Marshalltown.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Marshalltown typically cost about 4.The average Marshalltown homeowner needs a 9.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $26,974 with the federal tax credit, or $38,573 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Marshalltown homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $20,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.

To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Marshalltown, you can click the button below.

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

Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and knowledge. That's why almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Solar companies offer key benefits that can help you get the most out of your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.

If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
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 Marshalltown

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Marshalltown

Although the average cost of a solar system in Marshalltown is $26,974, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $4,010. The type of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Plus, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think 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 researching a solar system that’s in your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable route because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s important to keep that in mind 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

A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Marshalltown is the company you get to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, you’ll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.

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

The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have various brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
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 Marshalltown, IA Solar Cost FAQs

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

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

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 downside 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 option if you want to get the most savings.

How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,067.85 per year.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires 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 home 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.

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