Solar Panel Cost Guide in Muscatine, IA (2024 Update)
- Muscatine Solar Installation Cost: $27,077
- 25-Year Savings: $26,273
- Payback Period: 15.1 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Muscatine
We break down average solar pricing in Muscatine.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Muscatine typically cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 9.6-kW system would cost about $27,077 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Muscatine can save around $18,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, 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
Installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Muscatine
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Muscatine
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Muscatine is $27,077, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise 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 pick also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Muscatine homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panels can affect the cost. Muscatine’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Get details 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.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Muscatine, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Muscatine?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Muscatine?
Solar panels aren’t free in Muscatine, 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.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Muscatine?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt 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.
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.