Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clinton, IL (2024 Update)
- Clinton Solar Installation Cost: $16,629
- 25-Year Savings: $11,894
- Payback Period: 17.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clinton
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Clinton.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Clinton, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.3-kW system would cost about $16,629 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Clinton based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
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 Clinton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,778 |
| 3 years | $-14,077 |
| 5 years | $-12,376 |
| 7 years | $-10,675 |
| 9 years | $-8,973 |
| 11 years | $-7,272 |
| 13 years | $-5,571 |
| 15 years | $-3,869 |
| 17 years | $-2,168 |
| 19 years | $-467 |
| 21 years | $1,234 |
| 23 years | $2,936 |
| 25 years | $4,637 |
Top Solar Installers in Clinton
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and part 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
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 Clinton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clinton
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Clinton: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Clinton have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Clinton is the company you get to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Clinton know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $6,338 | 18.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $8,871 | 17.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $11,615 | 17.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $14,570 | 17.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $17,736 | 16.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $21,111 | 16.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $24,698 | 16.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $28,495 | 15.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
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 Clinton, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Clinton?
The average cost of solar panels in Clinton 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 like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Clinton?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Clinton. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Clinton have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Clinton?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.