Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chouteau, IL (2023 Update)
- Chouteau Solar Installation Cost: $11,690
- 25-Year Savings: $9,073
- Payback Period: 14.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chouteau
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Chouteau.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Chouteau typically cost about 2.73. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Chouteau, most homeowners require a 6.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $11,695, or $16,724 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average homeowners in Chouteau see about $13,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chouteau
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,621 |
| 3 years | $-11,483 |
| 5 years | $-11,344 |
| 7 years | $-11,206 |
| 9 years | $-11,067 |
| 11 years | $-10,929 |
| 13 years | $-10,791 |
| 15 years | $-10,652 |
| 17 years | $-10,514 |
| 19 years | $-10,375 |
| 21 years | $-10,237 |
| 23 years | $-10,099 |
| 25 years | $-9,960 |
Top Solar Installers in Chouteau
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and know-how. Because of that, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your family.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Chouteau
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chouteau
There are a number of factors that can play into your solar panel 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
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Chouteau, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Chouteau, 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 panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Chouteau, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Chouteau, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $8,440 | 14.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $11,559 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $14,831 | 14.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $18,255 | 13.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $21,833 | 13.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $25,564 | 13.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $29,447 | 12.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $33,483 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Chouteau, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want to install plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it's necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Chouteau, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chouteau?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Chouteau have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Chouteau?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt 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.