Solar Panel Cost Guide in Alexandria, LA (2024 Update)

  • Alexandria Solar Installation Cost: $26,881
  • 25-Year Savings: $32,573
  • Payback Period: 13.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Alexandria

We go over average solar pricing in Alexandria.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Alexandria generally cost around 4.The average Alexandria homeowner needs a 10.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $26,881 with the federal tax credit, or $38,440 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

The true price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Alexandria depending on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Alexandria can save around $19,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in Alexandria for a custom quote.

Solar savings over time in Alexandria

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-25,404
3 years $-22,450
5 years $-19,496
7 years $-16,542
9 years $-13,588
11 years $-10,634
13 years $-7,680
15 years $-4,726
17 years $-1,772
19 years $1,182
21 years $4,136
23 years $7,090
25 years $10,044

Top Solar Installers in Alexandria

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. 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 after your upfront investment.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Alexandria

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Alexandria

For many Alexandria homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Alexandria, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it’s a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Alexandria, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited 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

For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Alexandria, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Alexandria, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $3.95 $16,598 $13,535 13.8 years
8 kW $3.88 $21,706 $18,472 13.5 years
10 kW $3.80 $26,600 $23,622 13.2 years
12 kW $3.72 $31,282 $28,985 13.0 years
14 kW $3.65 $35,750 $34,561 12.7 years
16 kW $3.57 $40,006 $40,349 12.4 years
18 kW $3.50 $44,050 $46,351 12.2 years
20 kW $3.42 $47,880 $52,565 11.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly impacts 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:

  • Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Alexandria, LA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Alexandria?

The average cost of solar panels in Alexandria is about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Are solar panels free in Alexandria?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Alexandria. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?

It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Alexandria, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.

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