Solar Panel Cost Guide in Topeka, KS (2023 Update)
- Topeka Solar Installation Cost: $14,178
- 25-Year Savings: $28,827
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Topeka
We break down average solar pricing in Topeka.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Topeka typically cost around 2.59. The average Topeka 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.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Topeka based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Topeka can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Topeka, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Topeka
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,457 |
| 3 years | $-9,017 |
| 5 years | $-5,577 |
| 7 years | $-2,136 |
| 9 years | $1,304 |
| 11 years | $4,745 |
| 13 years | $8,185 |
| 15 years | $11,625 |
| 17 years | $15,066 |
| 19 years | $18,506 |
| 21 years | $21,947 |
| 23 years | $25,387 |
| 25 years | $28,827 |
Top Solar Installers in Topeka
Many homeowners choose to use a solar installation company since trying to install solar panels yourself can be challenging. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
Working with a professional 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
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 Topeka
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Topeka
Although the average cost of a solar system in Topeka is $14,178, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,590. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Topeka, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Topeka homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can impact the cost. Topeka's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $21,666 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $29,177 | 8.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $36,834 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $44,636 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $52,583 | 7.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $60,675 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $68,913 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $77,295 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from previous customers.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Topeka, KS Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Topeka?
The average cost of solar panels in Topeka is about $12,950 for a 5-kW system and $25,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Topeka?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.