Solar Panel Cost Guide in Independence, KY (2025 Update)
- Independence Solar Installation Cost: $24,758
- 25-Year Savings: $20,512
- Payback Period: 17.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Independence
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Independence.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Independence it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.7-kW system would cost about $24,758 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Independence for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Independence
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-23,563 |
| 3 years | $-21,174 |
| 5 years | $-18,785 |
| 7 years | $-16,395 |
| 9 years | $-14,006 |
| 11 years | $-11,617 |
| 13 years | $-9,227 |
| 15 years | $-6,838 |
| 17 years | $-4,449 |
| 19 years | $-2,060 |
| 21 years | $330 |
| 23 years | $2,719 |
| 25 years | $5,108 |
Top Solar Installers in Independence
Installing solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are often included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 comes down to 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 cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation use 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 $3,650.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Independence homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s important to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Independence, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, 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 | $3.80 | $15,943 | $6,586 | 17.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $9,190 | 17.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $11,998 | 17.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $15,011 | 16.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $18,229 | 16.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $21,650 | 16.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $25,276 | 15.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $29,107 | 15.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Independence, KY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Independence?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Independence?
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 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 utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.