Solar Panel Cost Guide in Oakbrook, KY (2024 Update)
- Oakbrook Solar Installation Cost: $24,703
- 25-Year Savings: $20,547
- Payback Period: 17.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Oakbrook
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Oakbrook.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Oakbrook, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Oakbrook is around 9.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $24,703 for a solar installation, or $35,325 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs will differ based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with.Even with the high initial cost, the average Oakbrook homeowner can save about $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Oakbrook, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Oakbrook
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-23,509 |
| 3 years | $-21,120 |
| 5 years | $-18,730 |
| 7 years | $-16,341 |
| 9 years | $-13,952 |
| 11 years | $-11,562 |
| 13 years | $-9,173 |
| 15 years | $-6,784 |
| 17 years | $-4,395 |
| 19 years | $-2,005 |
| 21 years | $384 |
| 23 years | $2,773 |
| 25 years | $5,162 |
Top Solar Installers in Oakbrook
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Oakbrook:
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 Oakbrook
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Oakbrook
There are several factors that can determine your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production 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 $3,650.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower 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 greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Oakbrook, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Oakbrook, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Oakbrook know more 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 | $3.80 | $15,943 | $6,635 | 17.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $9,256 | 17.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $12,081 | 17.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $15,110 | 16.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $18,344 | 16.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $21,782 | 16.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $25,425 | 15.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $29,272 | 15.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Each company may 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 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 Oakbrook, KY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Oakbrook?
The average cost of solar panels in Oakbrook is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to consider 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 goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Oakbrook?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power 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 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.