Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sheldon, IA (2025 Update)
- Sheldon Solar Installation Cost: $27,117
- 25-Year Savings: $21,622
- Payback Period: 16.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sheldon
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Sheldon.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sheldon, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Because a 9.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Sheldon, the average price of going solar will be about $27,117 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Sheldon see about $16,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar company in Sheldon, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sheldon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,400 |
| 3 years | $-21,967 |
| 5 years | $-18,534 |
| 7 years | $-15,101 |
| 9 years | $-11,668 |
| 11 years | $-8,235 |
| 13 years | $-4,802 |
| 15 years | $-1,369 |
| 17 years | $2,064 |
| 19 years | $5,497 |
| 21 years | $8,930 |
| 23 years | $12,363 |
| 25 years | $15,796 |
Top Solar Installers in Sheldon
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners opt to use a solar installation company since putting up a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company too, which can save you more money over time.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Sheldon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sheldon
For many Sheldon homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Sheldon, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several 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 higher efficiency or power production 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 several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that have better 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 a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Sheldon, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower 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 | $7,547 | 17.5 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $10,512 | 17.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $13,701 | 16.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $17,115 | 16.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $20,754 | 16.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $24,617 | 15.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $28,705 | 15.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $33,017 | 15.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will influence not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, such as:
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
EcoWatch's Sheldon, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sheldon?
The average cost of solar panels in Sheldon is about $20,050 for a 5-kW system and $40,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like 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 Sheldon?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Sheldon, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Sheldon, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.