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

  • Flagg Solar Installation Cost: $12,411
  • 25-Year Savings: $12,440
  • Payback Period: 12.5 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 Flagg

Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Flagg.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Flagg typically cost about 2.73. Using this figure, a typical 6.5-kW system would cost about $12,402 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Flagg can save around $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in Flagg for a personalized estimate.

Solar savings over time in Flagg

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,255
3 years $-8,943
5 years $-6,631
7 years $-4,318
9 years $-2,006
11 years $306
13 years $2,619
15 years $4,931
17 years $7,244
19 years $9,556
21 years $11,868
23 years $14,181
25 years $16,493

Top Solar Installers in Flagg

Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a stressful task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for your home.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:

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 Flagg

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Flagg

Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Flagg: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need for your home, 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 around $2,730. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Flagg, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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

Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Flagg homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can influence the cost. Flagg's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Flagg are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 $2.84 $11,925 $11,034 13.0 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $15,018 12.7 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $19,154 12.5 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $23,444 12.2 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $27,886 12.0 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $32,481 11.7 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $37,230 11.5 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $42,131 11.2 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of companies available in Flagg, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Contract: When reading through your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
  • Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
  • Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you go with.

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 Flagg, IL Solar Cost FAQs

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

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Flagg?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Flagg?

Each state has some form 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 power bills.

How long do solar panels last in Flagg?

Even though 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 keep using 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.

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