Solar Panel Cost Guide in Baker, LA (2023 Update)
- Baker Solar Installation Cost: $18,000
- 25-Year Savings: $27,494
- Payback Period: 9.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Baker
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Baker.
In Baker, solar panels cost about 2.57 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 10.0-kW system would cost about $18,008 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Baker can save about $17,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Baker
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,626 |
| 3 years | $-13,878 |
| 5 years | $-11,131 |
| 7 years | $-8,383 |
| 9 years | $-5,635 |
| 11 years | $-2,888 |
| 13 years | $-140 |
| 15 years | $2,608 |
| 17 years | $5,355 |
| 19 years | $8,103 |
| 21 years | $10,851 |
| 23 years | $13,598 |
| 25 years | $16,346 |
Top Solar Installers in Baker
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra time and know-how. That's why most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another benefit of going with a solar company is that they can help you optimize your investment by cutting back on future costs of repairs and replacements due to warranties and helping you learn about local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Baker:
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 Baker
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Baker
Although the average cost of a solar system in Baker is $18,008, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different 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 need 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 $2,570. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Baker to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Baker, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $2.67 | $11,226 | $16,055 | 10.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $21,695 | 10.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $27,479 | 9.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $33,406 | 9.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $39,478 | 9.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $45,693 | 9.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $52,052 | 9.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $58,556 | 8.9 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 choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
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 Baker, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Baker?
The average cost of solar panels in Baker is about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $909.38 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Baker?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production 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.