Solar Panel Cost Guide in Berne, IN (2025 Update)
- Berne Solar Installation Cost: $25,606
- 25-Year Savings: $29,629
- Payback Period: 13.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Berne
We go over average solar pricing in Berne.
The average cost of a solar system in Berne is 4 per watt.Since a 8.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Berne, the average price of going solar will be about $25,606 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Berne homeowner. The price 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 initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $20,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Berne
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-24,140 |
| 3 years | $-21,206 |
| 5 years | $-18,273 |
| 7 years | $-15,339 |
| 9 years | $-12,405 |
| 11 years | $-9,472 |
| 13 years | $-6,538 |
| 15 years | $-3,605 |
| 17 years | $-671 |
| 19 years | $2,262 |
| 21 years | $5,196 |
| 23 years | $8,129 |
| 25 years | $11,063 |
Top Solar Installers in Berne
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and know-how. For that reason, most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are often included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company too, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Berne
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Berne
The cost of installing a solar system in Berne can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Berne, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Berne offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Berne, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.26 | $17,909 | $13,272 | 14.4 years |
| 8 kW | $4.18 | $23,419 | $18,155 | 14.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.10 | $28,700 | $23,268 | 13.8 years |
| 12 kW | $4.02 | $33,751 | $28,611 | 13.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.94 | $38,573 | $34,183 | 13.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.85 | $43,165 | $39,984 | 13.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.77 | $47,527 | $46,016 | 12.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.69 | $51,660 | $52,276 | 12.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you’d like to install plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: Before signing 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.
EcoWatch's Berne, IN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Berne?
The average cost of solar panels in Berne is about $20,500 for a 5-kW system and $41,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Berne?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Berne, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Is it worth going solar in Berne?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage 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 buy 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.