Solar Panel Cost Guide in Topeka, KS (2024 Update)
- Topeka Solar Installation Cost: $18,293
- 25-Year Savings: $28,820
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Topeka
We go over average solar pricing in Topeka.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Topeka, the average cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.8-kW system would cost about $18,293 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on power bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Topeka that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Topeka
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,942 |
| 3 years | $-14,241 |
| 5 years | $-11,540 |
| 7 years | $-8,838 |
| 9 years | $-6,137 |
| 11 years | $-3,436 |
| 13 years | $-735 |
| 15 years | $1,967 |
| 17 years | $4,668 |
| 19 years | $7,369 |
| 21 years | $10,070 |
| 23 years | $12,772 |
| 25 years | $15,473 |
Top Solar Installers in Topeka
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. The payback period of solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but working with a solar company can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Topeka
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Topeka
For many Topeka homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Topeka, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better 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 $3,340.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only 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 a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Topeka, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Topeka, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.47 | $14,589 | $18,390 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.41 | $19,078 | $24,893 | 10.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.34 | $23,380 | $31,584 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.27 | $27,495 | $38,462 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.21 | $31,423 | $45,527 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.14 | $35,164 | $52,779 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.07 | $38,717 | $60,219 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.01 | $42,084 | $67,845 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will impact not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a quality company.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Topeka, KS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Topeka?
The average cost of solar panels in Topeka is about $16,700 for a 5-kW system and $33,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Topeka have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 house 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.