Solar Panel Cost Guide in Denning, IL (2024 Update)
- Denning Solar Installation Cost: $15,990
- 25-Year Savings: $11,241
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Denning
We go over average solar pricing in Denning.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Denning it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.1-kW system would cost about $15,990 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Denning based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average homeowners in Denning see about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Denning
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,139 |
| 3 years | $-13,438 |
| 5 years | $-11,736 |
| 7 years | $-10,035 |
| 9 years | $-8,334 |
| 11 years | $-6,633 |
| 13 years | $-4,931 |
| 15 years | $-3,230 |
| 17 years | $-1,529 |
| 19 years | $173 |
| 21 years | $1,874 |
| 23 years | $3,575 |
| 25 years | $5,277 |
Top Solar Installers in Denning
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a stressful project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Another benefit of working with a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your return of investment by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and helping you learn about local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Denning, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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
See all of the solar companies in Denning
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Denning
For many Denning homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Denning, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, 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 type of 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. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Denning average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Denning provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 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 last major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Denning, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle 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 | $3.91 | $16,424 | $6,144 | 18.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $8,613 | 17.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $11,293 | 17.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $14,183 | 17.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $17,284 | 16.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $20,595 | 16.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $24,117 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $27,849 | 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 picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you go with.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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
EcoWatch's Denning, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Denning?
The average cost of solar panels in Denning 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 stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Denning?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Denning?
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 utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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.