Solar Panel Cost Guide in Orange City, IA (2024 Update)
- Orange City Solar Installation Cost: $27,064
- 25-Year Savings: $16,748
- Payback Period: 19.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Orange City
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Orange City.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Orange City, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.6-kW system would cost about $27,064 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.Even with the significant initial cost, the average Orange City homeowner can save about $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Orange City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,996 |
| 3 years | $-23,860 |
| 5 years | $-21,724 |
| 7 years | $-19,588 |
| 9 years | $-17,453 |
| 11 years | $-15,317 |
| 13 years | $-13,181 |
| 15 years | $-11,045 |
| 17 years | $-8,910 |
| 19 years | $-6,774 |
| 21 years | $-4,638 |
| 23 years | $-2,502 |
| 25 years | $-366 |
Top Solar Installers in Orange City
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Another benefit of going with a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your return of investment by reducing your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Orange City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Orange City
There are a number of factors that can affect your solar panel 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 panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation use 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.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Orange City to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $4,540 | 19.9 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $6,503 | 19.5 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $8,690 | 19.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $11,102 | 18.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $13,738 | 18.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $16,599 | 17.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $19,684 | 17.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $22,994 | 17.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Orange City, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask questions 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.
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 Orange City, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Orange City?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Orange City?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
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 $735.20 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels 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 typically 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.