Solar Panel Cost Guide in Minooka, IL (Mar 2023)
- Minooka Solar Installation Cost: $12,345
- 25-Year Savings: $10,267
- Payback Period: 13.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Minooka
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Minooka.
The average cost of a solar system in Minooka is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.5-kW system would cost about $12,345 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $13,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Minooka, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Minooka
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,441 |
| 3 years | $-9,632 |
| 5 years | $-7,823 |
| 7 years | $-6,014 |
| 9 years | $-4,205 |
| 11 years | $-2,396 |
| 13 years | $-587 |
| 15 years | $1,222 |
| 17 years | $3,031 |
| 19 years | $4,840 |
| 21 years | $6,649 |
| 23 years | $8,458 |
| 25 years | $10,267 |
Top Solar Installers in Minooka
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since putting up a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Minooka, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Minooka
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Minooka
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Minooka: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Minooka, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Minooka homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $9,084 | 14.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $12,418 | 13.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $15,905 | 13.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $19,544 | 13.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $23,337 | 13.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $27,282 | 12.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $31,380 | 12.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $35,632 | 12.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Minooka, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the longevity of your solar energy system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- 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 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 (coming 2022)
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 Minooka, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Minooka?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Minooka?
Each state has some kind 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 offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.