Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fort Scott, KS (2023 Update)

  • Fort Scott Solar Installation Cost: $13,942
  • 25-Year Savings: $28,819
  • Payback Period: 8.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fort Scott

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Fort Scott.

In Fort Scott, solar panels cost about 2.59 per watt on average. Since a 7.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Fort Scott, the average price of going solar will be about $13,942 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Fort Scott based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Fort Scott homeowner can save around $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.

Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in Fort Scott for a custom quote.

Solar savings over time in Fort Scott

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-12,232
3 years $-8,811
5 years $-5,390
7 years $-1,969
9 years $1,452
11 years $4,873
13 years $8,294
15 years $11,714
17 years $15,135
19 years $18,556
21 years $21,977
23 years $25,398
25 years $28,819

Top Solar Installers in Fort Scott

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren't sure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Fort Scott

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fort Scott

The cost of installing a solar system in Fort Scott can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater 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 $2,590. The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will considerably influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Plus, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Fort Scott have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. 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 how long it'll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you select will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 $2.69 $11,313 $22,044 8.5 years
8 kW $2.64 $14,794 $29,682 8.3 years
10 kW $2.59 $18,130 $37,465 8.2 years
12 kW $2.54 $21,321 $45,393 8.0 years
14 kW $2.49 $24,367 $53,466 7.8 years
16 kW $2.43 $27,268 $61,684 7.7 years
18 kW $2.38 $30,023 $70,047 7.5 years
20 kW $2.33 $32,634 $78,556 7.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of companies to choose from in Fort Scott, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
  • Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Fort Scott, KS Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fort Scott?

The average cost of solar panels in Fort Scott is about $12,950 for a 5-kW system and $25,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like 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 Fort Scott?

You can't get solar panels for free in Fort Scott. 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 prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Fort Scott?

Each state has some kind 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 energy bills.

How long do solar panels last in Fort Scott?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.

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.

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