Solar Panel Cost Guide in Baker, LA (2023 Update)
- Baker Solar Installation Cost: $18,008
- 25-Year Savings: $27,486
- Payback Period: 9.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Baker
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Baker.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Baker generally cost around 2.57. Since a 10.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Baker, the average price of going solar will be about $18,008 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels 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 installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Baker can save about $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Baker
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,188 |
| 3 years | $-12,549 |
| 5 years | $-8,909 |
| 7 years | $-5,270 |
| 9 years | $-1,630 |
| 11 years | $2,009 |
| 13 years | $5,649 |
| 15 years | $9,288 |
| 17 years | $12,928 |
| 19 years | $16,567 |
| 21 years | $20,207 |
| 23 years | $23,846 |
| 25 years | $27,486 |
Top Solar Installers in Baker
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a lot of work. In addition, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar, using a solar company can help with that too. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Baker
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Baker
For many Baker homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Baker, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Baker, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,570 for each additional kilowatt you need. The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. While solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Baker homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Baker, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Baker have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $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 solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Baker, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Baker?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Baker have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.