Solar Panel Cost Guide in Charleston, IL (2023 Update)
- Charleston Solar Installation Cost: $11,997
- 25-Year Savings: $13,877
- Payback Period: 11.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Charleston
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Charleston.
In Charleston, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Since a 6.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Charleston, the average price of going solar will be about $12,001 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Charleston homeowner can save about $16,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Charleston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,910 |
| 3 years | $-11,738 |
| 5 years | $-11,565 |
| 7 years | $-11,393 |
| 9 years | $-11,220 |
| 11 years | $-11,048 |
| 13 years | $-10,875 |
| 15 years | $-10,703 |
| 17 years | $-10,530 |
| 19 years | $-10,358 |
| 21 years | $-10,185 |
| 23 years | $-10,013 |
| 25 years | $-9,840 |
Top Solar Installers in Charleston
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and handiness. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Charleston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Charleston
The cost of installing a solar system in Charleston can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $2,730. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Charleston average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Charleston provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.84 | $11,925 | $12,805 | 12.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $17,378 | 11.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $22,105 | 11.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $26,985 | 11.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $32,018 | 11.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $37,203 | 10.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $42,541 | 10.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $48,033 | 10.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
- 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're concerned about the longevity of your solar system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Charleston, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Charleston?
The average cost of solar panels in Charleston is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Charleston?
You can't get solar panels for free in Charleston. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Charleston?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
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 how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 install 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.