Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sioux City, IA (2024 Update)
- Sioux City Solar Installation Cost: $26,778
- 25-Year Savings: $25,058
- Payback Period: 15.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sioux City
We go over average solar pricing in Sioux City.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Sioux City generally cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 9.5-kW system would cost about $26,778 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Sioux City depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Sioux City for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Sioux City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,715 |
| 3 years | $-23,588 |
| 5 years | $-21,462 |
| 7 years | $-19,335 |
| 9 years | $-17,208 |
| 11 years | $-15,082 |
| 13 years | $-12,955 |
| 15 years | $-10,829 |
| 17 years | $-8,702 |
| 19 years | $-6,575 |
| 21 years | $-4,449 |
| 23 years | $-2,322 |
| 25 years | $-195 |
Top Solar Installers in Sioux City
When going solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 Sioux City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sioux City
There are many factors that can play into your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $4,010. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Sioux City, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Sioux City have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $9,878 | 16.0 years |
| 8 kW | $4.09 | $22,905 | $13,620 | 15.7 years |
| 10 kW | $4.01 | $28,070 | $17,586 | 15.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.93 | $33,010 | $21,777 | 15.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.85 | $37,726 | $26,193 | 14.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.77 | $42,217 | $30,833 | 14.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.69 | $46,484 | $35,697 | 14.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.61 | $50,526 | $40,786 | 13.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will impact not only your overall 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, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
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 Sioux City, IA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sioux City?
The average cost of solar panels in Sioux City 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 things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sioux City?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Sioux City?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even 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 the amount of energy they produce 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.
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.