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

  • Rutland Solar Installation Cost: $12,479
  • 25-Year Savings: $10,133
  • Payback Period: 13.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 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 Rutland

Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in Rutland.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Rutland typically cost around 2.73. The average solar panel system size in Rutland is around 6.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,479 for a solar installation, or $17,845 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Rutland depending on a few factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $13,000 over 20 years on power bills.

Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in Rutland for a customized estimate.

Solar savings over time in Rutland

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,574
3 years $-9,765
5 years $-7,956
7 years $-6,148
9 years $-4,339
11 years $-2,530
13 years $-721
15 years $1,088
17 years $2,897
19 years $4,706
21 years $6,515
23 years $8,324
25 years $10,133

Top Solar Installers in Rutland

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installation company since handling can be a challenging project. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.

Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. 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

Sunpro 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 Rutland

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rutland

For many Rutland homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Rutland, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Rutland have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, 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 finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you select will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Rutland have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 $8,851 14.3 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $12,107 14.1 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $15,516 13.8 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $19,077 13.5 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $22,792 13.2 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $26,660 13.0 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $30,680 12.7 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $34,853 12.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
  • Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Warranty: If you're concerned about the endurance of your solar system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.

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

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Rutland, IL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Rutland?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Rutland?

A solar panel system isn't free in Rutland, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

Do solar panels increase your home value?

Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Rutland is currently $271,866, so you could be looking at a value of about $11,147 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Rutland is a rewarding investment.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.

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