Solar Panel Cost Guide in Waukee, IA (2024 Update)

  • Waukee Solar Installation Cost: $26,806
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,986
  • Payback Period: 17.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Waukee

Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Waukee.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Waukee typically cost about 4.Using this figure, a typical 9.5-kW system would cost about $26,806 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Waukee homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a custom quote.

Solar savings over time in Waukee

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-25,738
3 years $-23,602
5 years $-21,466
7 years $-19,330
9 years $-17,195
11 years $-15,059
13 years $-12,923
15 years $-10,787
17 years $-8,652
19 years $-6,516
21 years $-4,380
23 years $-2,244
25 years $-108

Top Solar Installers in Waukee

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra time and expertise. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Another advantage of utilizing a solar company is that they can help you make the most of your investment by bringing down your future costs of repairs and replacements due to warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Waukee

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Waukee

Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Waukee: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll go over each of these briefly below.

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, you can expect your total to increase by around $4,010. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Waukee have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Waukee, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and choose a company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within your budget.

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 $6,676 18.1 years
8 kW $4.09 $22,905 $9,350 17.8 years
10 kW $4.01 $28,070 $12,249 17.4 years
12 kW $3.93 $33,010 $15,372 17.1 years
14 kW $3.85 $37,726 $18,720 16.7 years
16 kW $3.77 $42,217 $22,293 16.4 years
18 kW $3.69 $46,484 $26,090 16.0 years
20 kW $3.61 $50,526 $30,112 15.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many companies available in Waukee, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
  • Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Waukee, IA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Waukee?

The average cost of solar panels in Waukee is about $20,050 for a 5-kW system and $40,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Can you get solar panels for free in Waukee?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Waukee, 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.

Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?

Solar panels can increase your home value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.

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.

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