Solar Panel Cost Guide in East Alton, IL (2024 Update)
- East Alton Solar Installation Cost: $16,101
- 25-Year Savings: $11,083
- Payback Period: 17.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in East Alton
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in East Alton.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in East Alton, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in East Alton is around 6.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,101 for a solar installation, or $23,024 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in East Alton can save about $14,000 on their electricity 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 East Alton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,250 |
| 3 years | $-13,549 |
| 5 years | $-11,848 |
| 7 years | $-10,147 |
| 9 years | $-8,445 |
| 11 years | $-6,744 |
| 13 years | $-5,043 |
| 15 years | $-3,341 |
| 17 years | $-1,640 |
| 19 years | $61 |
| 21 years | $1,763 |
| 23 years | $3,464 |
| 25 years | $5,165 |
Top Solar Installers in East Alton
When going solar, many homeowners decide to go with a solar installation company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Since solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
There are various 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
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 East Alton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in East Alton
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in East Alton: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,760 per kilowatt in East Alton.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like East Alton, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of 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 a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in East Alton, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in East Alton, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $5,913 | 18.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $8,305 | 18.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $10,907 | 17.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $13,720 | 17.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $16,744 | 17.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $19,978 | 16.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $23,423 | 16.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $27,078 | 15.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in East Alton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar panels, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through fully 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 what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid 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.
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 East Alton, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in East Alton?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in East Alton?
A solar panel system isn’t free in East Alton, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $744.54 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.