Solar Panel Cost Guide in Central, LA (2024 Update)
- Central Solar Installation Cost: $26,607
- 25-Year Savings: $25,572
- Payback Period: 15.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Central
We go over average solar pricing in Central.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Central, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Since a 10.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Central, the average price of going solar will be about $26,607 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Central
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,265 |
| 3 years | $-22,582 |
| 5 years | $-19,899 |
| 7 years | $-17,216 |
| 9 years | $-14,533 |
| 11 years | $-11,850 |
| 13 years | $-9,167 |
| 15 years | $-6,483 |
| 17 years | $-3,800 |
| 19 years | $-1,117 |
| 21 years | $1,566 |
| 23 years | $4,249 |
| 25 years | $6,932 |
Top Solar Installers in Central
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Plus, if you’re not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Central
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Central
For many Central homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Central, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
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 that have 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 $3,800.The brand of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will greatly affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, 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 into a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.Though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Central homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Central, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $9,535 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $13,138 | 15.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $16,955 | 15.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $20,985 | 15.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $25,227 | 14.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $29,682 | 14.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $34,350 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $39,230 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the longevity of your solar panels, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Central, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Central?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Central?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Central?
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 offer 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 usage and the average daily 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.