Solar Panel Cost Guide in Long Creek, IL (2023 Update)

  • Long Creek Solar Installation Cost: $12,028
  • 25-Year Savings: $16,956
  • Payback Period: 10.4 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

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Long Creek

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

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Long Creek, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Long Creek, most homeowners require a 6.3-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $12,020, or $17,189 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installer in Long Creek, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Long Creek

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,177
3 years $-9,476
5 years $-7,774
7 years $-6,073
9 years $-4,372
11 years $-2,670
13 years $-969
15 years $732
17 years $2,433
19 years $4,135
21 years $5,836
23 years $7,537
25 years $9,239

Top Solar Installers in Long Creek

Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful project, which is why getting 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 choose which one will be right for your home.

Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:

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 Long Creek

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Long Creek

For many Long Creek homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Long Creek, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

Solar 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 important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at 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

Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Long Creek homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Long Creek homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Long Creek is the company you get to install your PV 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 at different price points. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.

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 $15,706 10.8 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $21,247 10.6 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $26,941 10.4 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $32,788 10.2 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $38,787 10.0 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $44,940 9.8 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $51,245 9.5 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $57,703 9.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
  • Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
  • Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.

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 Long Creek, IL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Long Creek?

The average cost of solar panels in Long Creek is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Are solar panels free in Long Creek?

You can't get solar panels for free in Long Creek. 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 Long Creek have a net metering program?

Each state has some form 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 electricity bills.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily 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 buy 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.

Follow us