Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dunlap, IN (2023 Update)
- Dunlap Solar Installation Cost: $16,952
- 25-Year Savings: $26,240
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dunlap
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Dunlap.
In Dunlap, solar panels cost about 2.68 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 9.0-kW system would cost about $16,959 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Dunlap based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Dunlap see about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dunlap
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,335 |
| 3 years | $-12,100 |
| 5 years | $-8,865 |
| 7 years | $-5,630 |
| 9 years | $-2,395 |
| 11 years | $840 |
| 13 years | $4,074 |
| 15 years | $7,309 |
| 17 years | $10,544 |
| 19 years | $13,779 |
| 21 years | $17,014 |
| 23 years | $20,249 |
| 25 years | $23,484 |
Top Solar Installers in Dunlap
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a challenging project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Dunlap, therefore optimizing your ROI.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Dunlap
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dunlap
There are a number of factors that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,680 per kilowatt in Dunlap. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Dunlap, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Dunlap, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Dunlap know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $16,972 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.73 | $15,308 | $22,930 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.68 | $18,760 | $29,037 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.63 | $22,062 | $35,295 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.57 | $25,213 | $41,703 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.52 | $28,215 | $48,261 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,067 | $54,969 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.41 | $33,768 | $61,827 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Dunlap, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar energy system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which company you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project 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 Dunlap, IN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dunlap?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Dunlap?
A solar panel system isn't free in Dunlap, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Dunlap have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs 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 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.