Solar Panel Cost Guide in Breaux Bridge, LA (Mar 2023)
- Breaux Bridge Solar Installation Cost: $18,008
- 25-Year Savings: $28,400
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Breaux Bridge
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Breaux Bridge.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Breaux Bridge it's 2.57 per watt. Since a 10.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Breaux Bridge, the average price of going solar will be about $18,008 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Breaux Bridge homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Breaux Bridge can save about $18,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Breaux Bridge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,152 |
| 3 years | $-12,439 |
| 5 years | $-8,726 |
| 7 years | $-5,014 |
| 9 years | $-1,301 |
| 11 years | $2,411 |
| 13 years | $6,124 |
| 15 years | $9,837 |
| 17 years | $13,549 |
| 19 years | $17,262 |
| 21 years | $20,974 |
| 23 years | $24,687 |
| 25 years | $28,400 |
Top Solar Installers in Breaux Bridge
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra time and expertise. That's why most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and lower the cost of maintenance over time.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Breaux Bridge:
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 Breaux Bridge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Breaux Bridge
For many Breaux Bridge homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Breaux Bridge, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,570 per kilowatt in Breaux Bridge. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Breaux Bridge average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Breaux Bridge to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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.