Solar Panel Cost Guide in Christy, IL (2023 Update)

  • Christy Solar Installation Cost: $11,885
  • 25-Year Savings: $11,669
  • Payback Period: 12.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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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 Christy

See how much it might cost to go solar in Christy.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Christy is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.2-kW system would cost about $11,886 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Christy based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Christy can save about $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Christy

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,807
3 years $-11,650
5 years $-11,493
7 years $-11,336
9 years $-11,179
11 years $-11,022
13 years $-10,865
15 years $-10,708
17 years $-10,551
19 years $-10,394
21 years $-10,237
23 years $-10,080
25 years $-9,923

Top Solar Installers in Christy

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a challenging project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.

You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Christy:

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Christy

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Christy

While the average cost of a solar system in Christy is $11,886, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Christy, 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 consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. The type 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. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Christy average.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Christy, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's wise to add 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 back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can influence how much you pay. Christy's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to 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 $10,798 13.1 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $14,703 12.9 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $18,761 12.6 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $22,972 12.4 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $27,336 12.1 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $31,852 11.9 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $36,522 11.6 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $41,344 11.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Christy, IL Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Christy?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is certainly one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Does Christy have a net metering program?

Most states offer 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 utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage 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 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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