Solar Panel Cost Guide in Breaux Bridge, LA (2023 Update)
- Breaux Bridge Solar Installation Cost: $18,000
- 25-Year Savings: $28,407
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Breaux Bridge
We break down average solar pricing in Breaux Bridge.
In Breaux Bridge, solar panels cost about 2.57 per watt on average. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Breaux Bridge, most homeowners require a 10.0-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $18,008, or $25,751 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Breaux Bridge homeowners see about $18,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Breaux Bridge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,422 |
| 3 years | $-13,267 |
| 5 years | $-10,112 |
| 7 years | $-6,957 |
| 9 years | $-3,801 |
| 11 years | $-646 |
| 13 years | $2,509 |
| 15 years | $5,664 |
| 17 years | $8,820 |
| 19 years | $11,975 |
| 21 years | $15,130 |
| 23 years | $18,285 |
| 25 years | $21,441 |
Top Solar Installers in Breaux Bridge
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and knowledge. For that reason, most people choose a solar panel installer. Another great thing about choosing a vetted solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar investment.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost 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
See all of the solar companies in Breaux Bridge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Breaux Bridge
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Breaux Bridge: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems 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 that have higher efficiency or power production require 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 $2,570. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid choice because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. While solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Breaux Bridge homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Breaux Bridge, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Breaux Bridge know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $16,603 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $22,425 | 9.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $28,391 | 9.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $34,501 | 9.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $40,755 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $47,153 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $53,695 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $60,380 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Breaux Bridge, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar 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 acquire and how long the project will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you go with.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through fully 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.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Breaux Bridge, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Breaux Bridge?
The average cost of solar panels in Breaux Bridge 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 like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Breaux Bridge?
You can't get solar panels for free in Breaux Bridge. 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 you sell solar power back to the grid in Breaux Bridge?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.