Solar Panel Cost Guide in Muscatine, IA (2025 Update)
- Muscatine Solar Installation Cost: $27,077
- 25-Year Savings: $26,273
- Payback Period: 15.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Muscatine
We break down average solar pricing in Muscatine.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Muscatine, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.6-kW system would cost about $27,077 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Muscatine can save about $18,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Muscatine
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,360 |
| 3 years | $-21,927 |
| 5 years | $-18,494 |
| 7 years | $-15,061 |
| 9 years | $-11,628 |
| 11 years | $-8,195 |
| 13 years | $-4,762 |
| 15 years | $-1,329 |
| 17 years | $2,104 |
| 19 years | $5,537 |
| 21 years | $8,970 |
| 23 years | $12,403 |
| 25 years | $15,836 |
Top Solar Installers in Muscatine
When going solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a difficult project. Solar warranties and repairs are often 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’d like to go solar but still aren’t certain which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
See all of the solar companies in Muscatine
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Muscatine
There are several criteria that can determine your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,010.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Muscatine, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s important to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Muscatine, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Muscatine are more knowledgeable 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 | $4.17 | $17,516 | $10,460 | 15.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $14,396 | 15.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $18,557 | 15.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $22,942 | 14.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $27,551 | 14.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $32,385 | 14.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $37,444 | 13.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $42,727 | 13.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can look into your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
EcoWatch's Muscatine, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Muscatine?
The average cost of solar panels in Muscatine 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 certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Muscatine?
Solar panels aren’t free in Muscatine, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Muscatine?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having 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.