Solar Panel Cost Guide in Augusta, KS (Mar 2023)
- Augusta Solar Installation Cost: $13,507
- 25-Year Savings: $28,161
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Augusta
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Augusta.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Augusta generally cost around 2.59. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Augusta, most homeowners require a 7.5-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $13,507, or $19,315 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Augusta homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Augusta can save about $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a personalized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Augusta
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,840 |
| 3 years | $-8,507 |
| 5 years | $-5,173 |
| 7 years | $-1,840 |
| 9 years | $1,494 |
| 11 years | $4,827 |
| 13 years | $8,161 |
| 15 years | $11,494 |
| 17 years | $14,827 |
| 19 years | $18,161 |
| 21 years | $21,494 |
| 23 years | $24,828 |
| 25 years | $28,161 |
Top Solar Installers in Augusta
Trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
Working with a vetted solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Augusta
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Augusta
There are several criteria that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Augusta, one of the most important 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 consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,590 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Augusta, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Augusta have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $2.69 | $11,313 | $22,236 | 8.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $29,938 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $37,785 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $45,777 | 7.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $53,915 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $62,197 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $70,624 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $79,197 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with will affect not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Augusta, KS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Augusta?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,950 for a 5-kW system and $25,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient 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 cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Augusta?
Solar panels aren't free in Augusta, 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.
How will installing solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase your property's value considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.