Solar Panel Cost Guide in Berne, IN (2023 Update)
- Berne Solar Installation Cost: $16,734
- 25-Year Savings: $29,633
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Berne
We go over average solar pricing in Berne.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Berne it's 2.68 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Berne, most homeowners require a 8.9-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $16,734, or $23,930 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs may differ based on your energy needs and what company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Berne see about $20,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Berne
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,879 |
| 3 years | $-11,170 |
| 5 years | $-7,461 |
| 7 years | $-3,751 |
| 9 years | $-42 |
| 11 years | $3,667 |
| 13 years | $7,377 |
| 15 years | $11,086 |
| 17 years | $14,795 |
| 19 years | $18,505 |
| 21 years | $22,214 |
| 23 years | $25,923 |
| 25 years | $29,633 |
Top Solar Installers in Berne
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to use a solar installation company since installing a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Berne, we've organized 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
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 Berne
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Berne
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Berne: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation require 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 $2,680. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Berne, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Berne provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. It's wise 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $2.79 | $11,706 | $19,475 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.73 | $15,308 | $26,266 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.68 | $18,760 | $33,208 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.63 | $22,062 | $40,300 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.57 | $25,213 | $47,542 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.52 | $28,215 | $54,934 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,067 | $62,476 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.41 | $33,768 | $70,168 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Berne, IN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Berne?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,400 for a 5-kW system and $26,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Berne?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Berne?
Each state has some form 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 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 usage and the average daily 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 buy 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.