Solar Panel Cost Guide in Brownsburg, IN (2023 Update)
- Brownsburg Solar Installation Cost: $16,523
- 25-Year Savings: $23,292
- Payback Period: 10.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Brownsburg
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Brownsburg.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Brownsburg it's 2.68 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Brownsburg, most homeowners require a 8.8-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $16,528, or $23,635 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Brownsburg depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Brownsburg that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Brownsburg
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,225 |
| 3 years | $-12,628 |
| 5 years | $-10,031 |
| 7 years | $-7,434 |
| 9 years | $-4,837 |
| 11 years | $-2,241 |
| 13 years | $356 |
| 15 years | $2,953 |
| 17 years | $5,550 |
| 19 years | $8,147 |
| 21 years | $10,744 |
| 23 years | $13,340 |
| 25 years | $15,937 |
Top Solar Installers in Brownsburg
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installation company since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Brownsburg, the EcoWatch team has 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
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 Brownsburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Brownsburg
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 Brownsburg: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $2,680. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Brownsburg, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Brownsburg homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a role in determining the cost. Brownsburg's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Brownsburg are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $2.79 | $11,706 | $15,417 | 10.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.73 | $15,308 | $20,856 | 10.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.68 | $18,760 | $26,445 | 10.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.63 | $22,062 | $32,185 | 10.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.57 | $25,213 | $38,074 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.52 | $28,215 | $44,113 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,067 | $50,303 | 9.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.41 | $33,768 | $56,643 | 9.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it's necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
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 Brownsburg, IN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Brownsburg?
The average cost of solar panels in Brownsburg is about $13,400 for a 5-kW system and $26,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Brownsburg?
You can't get solar panels for free in Brownsburg. 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'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Brownsburg?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
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 amount of 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 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.