Solar Panel Cost Guide in Belle Chasse, LA (2024 Update)

  • Belle Chasse Solar Installation Cost: $26,333
  • 25-Year Savings: $26,940
  • Payback Period: 14.7 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 Belle Chasse

We break down average solar pricing in Belle Chasse.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Belle Chasse, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Since a 9.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Belle Chasse, the average price of going solar will be about $26,333 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.Despite the high initial cost, the average Belle Chasse homeowner can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.

For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Belle Chasse

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-25,024
3 years $-22,405
5 years $-19,787
7 years $-17,168
9 years $-14,550
11 years $-11,931
13 years $-9,313
15 years $-6,694
17 years $-4,076
19 years $-1,457
21 years $1,161
23 years $3,780
25 years $6,399

Top Solar Installers in Belle Chasse

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar company as well, which can save you more money over time.

If you're looking for a solar company in Belle Chasse, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

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 Belle Chasse

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Belle Chasse

While the average cost of a solar system in Belle Chasse is $26,333, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system 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 a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater 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 $3,800.The type of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will greatly impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Furthermore, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on 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 falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Belle Chasse have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can affect the cost. Belle Chasse’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.

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 $10,523 15.3 years
8 kW $3.88 $21,706 $14,456 15.0 years
10 kW $3.80 $26,600 $18,602 14.7 years
12 kW $3.72 $31,282 $22,961 14.4 years
14 kW $3.65 $35,750 $27,533 14.1 years
16 kW $3.57 $40,006 $32,317 13.8 years
18 kW $3.50 $44,050 $37,314 13.5 years
20 kW $3.42 $47,880 $42,524 13.2 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. Because picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about your solar system’s energy production.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
  • Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.

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 Belle Chasse, LA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Belle Chasse?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Belle Chasse?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.

Does Belle Chasse have a net metering program?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to 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?

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 home 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.

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