Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tecumseh, KS (2023 Update)
- Tecumseh Solar Installation Cost: $14,178
- 25-Year Savings: $28,774
- Payback Period: 8.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tecumseh
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Tecumseh.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Tecumseh, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.59 per watt. The average Tecumseh homeowner needs a 7.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,178 with the federal tax credit, or $20,275 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs may look different based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Tecumseh homeowners see about $21,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Tecumseh that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Tecumseh
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,460 |
| 3 years | $-9,023 |
| 5 years | $-5,587 |
| 7 years | $-2,151 |
| 9 years | $1,285 |
| 11 years | $4,721 |
| 13 years | $8,157 |
| 15 years | $11,594 |
| 17 years | $15,030 |
| 19 years | $18,466 |
| 21 years | $21,902 |
| 23 years | $25,338 |
| 25 years | $28,774 |
Top Solar Installers in Tecumseh
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and handiness. That's one of the reasons most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Tecumseh, we've compiled 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 Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Tecumseh
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tecumseh
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Tecumseh: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Tecumseh, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Tecumseh homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you pick will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $21,625 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $29,123 | 8.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $36,767 | 8.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $44,555 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $52,489 | 7.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $60,567 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $68,791 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $77,160 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Tecumseh, KS Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Tecumseh?
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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Tecumseh?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Does Tecumseh have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Tecumseh?
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 larger 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.