Solar Panel Cost Guide in Caledonia, IL (2024 Update)
- Caledonia Solar Installation Cost: $17,201
- 25-Year Savings: $12,123
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Caledonia
We break down average solar pricing in Caledonia.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Caledonia it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.5-kW system would cost about $17,201 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Caledonia based on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Caledonia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,045 |
| 3 years | $-13,733 |
| 5 years | $-11,421 |
| 7 years | $-9,108 |
| 9 years | $-6,796 |
| 11 years | $-4,484 |
| 13 years | $-2,171 |
| 15 years | $141 |
| 17 years | $2,454 |
| 19 years | $4,766 |
| 21 years | $7,078 |
| 23 years | $9,391 |
| 25 years | $11,703 |
Top Solar Installers in Caledonia
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra labor and knowledge. That's why almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Because 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 reducing potential costs down the line.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Caledonia, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Caledonia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Caledonia
There are several criteria that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, 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 nearly $3,760. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Caledonia average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Caledonia, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will impact your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Caledonia have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $3.91 | $16,424 | $6,172 | 18.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $8,650 | 17.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $11,339 | 17.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $14,239 | 17.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $17,349 | 16.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $20,669 | 16.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $24,200 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $27,942 | 15.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Caledonia, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Caledonia?
The average cost of solar panels in Caledonia is about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Caledonia?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Does Caledonia have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of 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 account for 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.