Solar Panel Cost Guide in Whitmore, IL (2024 Update)
- Whitmore Solar Installation Cost: $16,565
- 25-Year Savings: $16,036
- Payback Period: 14.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Whitmore
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Whitmore.
In Whitmore, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Whitmore is around 6.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,565 for a solar installation, or $23,688 before the 0 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 true cost of going solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Despite the large upfront cost, the average Whitmore homeowner can save around $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in Whitmore for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Whitmore
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,715 |
| 3 years | $-14,013 |
| 5 years | $-12,312 |
| 7 years | $-10,611 |
| 9 years | $-8,910 |
| 11 years | $-7,208 |
| 13 years | $-5,507 |
| 15 years | $-3,806 |
| 17 years | $-2,104 |
| 19 years | $-403 |
| 21 years | $1,298 |
| 23 years | $2,999 |
| 25 years | $4,701 |
Top Solar Installers in Whitmore
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and knowledge. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Whitmore, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Whitmore
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Whitmore
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Whitmore: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Whitmore, one of the most crucial 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 electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,760 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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. Also, if you want add-ons 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 time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Whitmore homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Whitmore, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Whitmore know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $3.91 | $16,424 | $10,329 | 15.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $14,193 | 15.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $18,268 | 14.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $22,553 | 14.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $27,049 | 14.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $31,756 | 13.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $36,673 | 13.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $41,800 | 13.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Whitmore, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Whitmore?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Whitmore?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Whitmore. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Whitmore?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had 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.