Solar Panel Cost Guide in Independence, KS (2023 Update)
- Independence Solar Installation Cost: $13,588
- 25-Year Savings: $30,346
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Independence
We go over average solar pricing in Independence.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Independence, the average cost of a solar system is 2.59 per watt. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Independence, most homeowners require a 7.5-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $13,579, or $19,418 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will differ based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Independence can save about $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Independence
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,252 |
| 3 years | $-9,580 |
| 5 years | $-6,908 |
| 7 years | $-4,235 |
| 9 years | $-1,563 |
| 11 years | $1,109 |
| 13 years | $3,781 |
| 15 years | $6,453 |
| 17 years | $9,125 |
| 19 years | $11,797 |
| 21 years | $14,469 |
| 23 years | $17,142 |
| 25 years | $19,814 |
Top Solar Installers in Independence
Installing solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming task, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, particularly if you don't quite know what type of solar equipment you need.
Working with a licensed 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
See all of the solar companies in Independence
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Independence
For many Independence homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Independence, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $2,590. The kind of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will largely influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Moreover, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to think 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
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Independence is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Independence 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 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 | $23,858 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $32,101 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $40,489 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $49,022 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $57,700 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $66,522 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $75,490 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $84,604 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before making your decision.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid 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 service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Independence, KS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Independence?
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 higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Independence have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Independence?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.