Solar Panel Cost Guide in Southgate, KY (2023 Update)
- Southgate Solar Installation Cost: $15,916
- 25-Year Savings: $15,909
- Payback Period: 12.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Southgate
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Southgate.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Southgate, the average cost of a solar system is 2.34 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 9.7-kW system would cost about $15,921 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $12,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Southgate
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,721 |
| 3 years | $-12,332 |
| 5 years | $-9,943 |
| 7 years | $-7,554 |
| 9 years | $-5,164 |
| 11 years | $-2,775 |
| 13 years | $-386 |
| 15 years | $2,003 |
| 17 years | $4,393 |
| 19 years | $6,782 |
| 21 years | $9,171 |
| 23 years | $11,561 |
| 25 years | $13,950 |
Top Solar Installers in Southgate
When going solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 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 Southgate
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Southgate
There are several criteria that can affect your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production 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 $2,340. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Southgate offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will affect your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of greater 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 discount 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 | $2.43 | $10,221 | $9,430 | 13.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.39 | $13,366 | $12,836 | 12.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.34 | $16,380 | $16,372 | 12.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.29 | $19,263 | $20,040 | 12.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.25 | $22,015 | $23,839 | 12.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.20 | $24,636 | $27,768 | 11.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.15 | $27,125 | $31,829 | 11.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.11 | $29,484 | $36,021 | 11.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you opt for.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating 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 service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
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 Southgate, KY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Southgate?
The average cost of solar panels in Southgate is about $11,700 for a 5-kW system and $23,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Southgate?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure 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.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much 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 requires 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 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.