Solar Panel Cost Guide in Osceola, IA (2023 Update)
- Osceola Solar Installation Cost: $18,382
- 25-Year Savings: $33,121
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Osceola
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Osceola.
The average cost of solar panels in Osceola is 2.77 per watt. The average Osceola homeowner needs a 9.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,382 with the federal tax credit, or $26,286 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Osceola homeowners see about $21,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Osceola
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,322 |
| 3 years | $-12,201 |
| 5 years | $-8,081 |
| 7 years | $-3,961 |
| 9 years | $159 |
| 11 years | $4,279 |
| 13 years | $8,400 |
| 15 years | $12,520 |
| 17 years | $16,640 |
| 19 years | $20,760 |
| 21 years | $24,880 |
| 23 years | $29,001 |
| 25 years | $33,121 |
Top Solar Installers in Osceola
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra effort and handiness. That's why most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Osceola, optimizing your ROI.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Osceola
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Osceola
For many Osceola homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Osceola, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation require 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 $2,770. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will largely impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Moreover, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Osceola have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. While solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Osceola homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Osceola, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $20,490 | 9.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $27,630 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $34,925 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $42,375 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $49,981 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $57,741 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $65,657 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $73,728 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you hire.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Osceola, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Osceola?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost 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 go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Osceola?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Osceola?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.