Solar Panel Cost Guide in Central, LA (2023 Update)
- Central Solar Installation Cost: $17,990
- 25-Year Savings: $25,576
- Payback Period: 10.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Central
We break down average solar pricing in Central.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Central is 2.57 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 10.0-kW system would cost about $17,990 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Central homeowner can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Central
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,247 |
| 3 years | $-12,762 |
| 5 years | $-9,277 |
| 7 years | $-5,791 |
| 9 years | $-2,306 |
| 11 years | $1,179 |
| 13 years | $4,664 |
| 15 years | $8,150 |
| 17 years | $11,635 |
| 19 years | $15,120 |
| 21 years | $18,606 |
| 23 years | $22,091 |
| 25 years | $25,576 |
Top Solar Installers in Central
When going solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installer since putting up a solar system yourself can be a time-consuming project. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Central is $17,990, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Central provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Central, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $14,907 | 10.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $20,164 | 10.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $25,565 | 10.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $31,110 | 10.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $36,799 | 9.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $42,631 | 9.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $48,608 | 9.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $54,728 | 9.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you choose.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Central?
The average cost of solar panels in Central 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 certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Central?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Central, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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.