Solar Panel Cost Guide in Warren, IL (Mar 2023)
- Warren Solar Installation Cost: $12,078
- 25-Year Savings: $10,534
- Payback Period: 13.4 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Warren
We go over average solar pricing in Warren.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Warren, the average cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Warren, most homeowners require a 6.3-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $12,078, or $17,272 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Warren homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Warren
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,173 |
| 3 years | $-9,364 |
| 5 years | $-7,555 |
| 7 years | $-5,746 |
| 9 years | $-3,937 |
| 11 years | $-2,128 |
| 13 years | $-319 |
| 15 years | $1,490 |
| 17 years | $3,298 |
| 19 years | $5,107 |
| 21 years | $6,916 |
| 23 years | $8,725 |
| 25 years | $10,534 |
Top Solar Installers in Warren
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Warren, 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 Warren
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Warren
For many Warren homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Warren, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Warren average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Warren, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's wise to include 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
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining your pricing. Warren's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — 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 choose a company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fit into 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $9,531 | 13.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $13,014 | 13.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $16,649 | 13.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $20,438 | 13.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $24,379 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $28,473 | 12.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $32,721 | 12.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $37,121 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- 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 big role in the company you hire.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the durability of your solar panel system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
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 Warren, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Warren?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Warren?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often 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 option if you want to get the most savings.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $715.19 per year.
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 how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 get 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.