Solar Panel Cost Guide in Webster City, IA (2023 Update)
- Webster City Solar Installation Cost: $18,692
- 25-Year Savings: $24,913
- Payback Period: 10.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Webster City
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Webster City.
The average cost of a solar system in Webster City is 2.77 per watt. The average Webster City homeowner needs a 9.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,692 with the federal tax credit, or $26,730 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs will most likely differ based on your energy needs and what company you go with. Even with the large upfront cost, the average Webster City homeowner can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Webster City that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Webster City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,948 |
| 3 years | $-13,459 |
| 5 years | $-9,971 |
| 7 years | $-6,483 |
| 9 years | $-2,994 |
| 11 years | $494 |
| 13 years | $3,982 |
| 15 years | $7,471 |
| 17 years | $10,959 |
| 19 years | $14,447 |
| 21 years | $17,936 |
| 23 years | $21,424 |
| 25 years | $24,913 |
Top Solar Installers in Webster City
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your location and energy consumption, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Webster City:
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 Webster City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Webster City
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Webster City: 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 cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation require 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 $2,770. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Webster City, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Webster City, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher 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 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 throughout Webster City, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $15,035 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $20,358 | 10.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $25,835 | 10.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $31,467 | 10.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $37,254 | 10.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $43,197 | 10.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $49,295 | 9.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $55,547 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before making your decision.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Webster City, IA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Webster City?
The average cost of solar panels in Webster City is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Webster City?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Webster City, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with 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 stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.