Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mount Vernon, IA (2023 Update)
- Mount Vernon Solar Installation Cost: $18,847
- 25-Year Savings: $28,488
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mount Vernon
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Mount Vernon.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Mount Vernon, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.77 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Mount Vernon is around 9.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $18,847 for a solar installation, or $26,951 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Even with the high upfront cost, the average Mount Vernon homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Mount Vernon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,954 |
| 3 years | $-13,167 |
| 5 years | $-9,380 |
| 7 years | $-5,593 |
| 9 years | $-1,807 |
| 11 years | $1,980 |
| 13 years | $5,767 |
| 15 years | $9,554 |
| 17 years | $13,341 |
| 19 years | $17,127 |
| 21 years | $20,914 |
| 23 years | $24,701 |
| 25 years | $28,488 |
Top Solar Installers in Mount Vernon
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money over time.
If you're looking for a solar company in Mount Vernon, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Mount Vernon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mount Vernon
For many Mount Vernon homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Mount Vernon, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,770 per kilowatt in Mount Vernon. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Mount Vernon, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Mount Vernon, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panels can play a part in determining your pricing. Mount Vernon's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Mount Vernon know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $17,130 | 10.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $23,150 | 10.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $29,326 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $35,656 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $42,142 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $48,783 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $55,578 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $62,529 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand 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 things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
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 Mount Vernon, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Mount Vernon?
The average cost of solar panels in Mount Vernon is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Mount Vernon?
You can't get solar panels for free in Mount Vernon. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Mount Vernon have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Mount Vernon?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.