Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fort Polk South, LA (2023 Update)
- Fort Polk South Solar Installation Cost: $17,936
- 25-Year Savings: $30,480
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fort Polk South
Here's how much it might cost to go solar in Fort Polk South.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Fort Polk South, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.57 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Fort Polk South is around 10.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,936 for a solar installation, or $25,648 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Fort Polk South see about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Fort Polk South for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Fort Polk South
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,999 |
| 3 years | $-12,126 |
| 5 years | $-8,253 |
| 7 years | $-4,379 |
| 9 years | $-506 |
| 11 years | $3,367 |
| 13 years | $7,240 |
| 15 years | $11,114 |
| 17 years | $14,987 |
| 19 years | $18,860 |
| 21 years | $22,734 |
| 23 years | $26,607 |
| 25 years | $30,480 |
Top Solar Installers in Fort Polk South
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. Plus, if you're not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar company in Fort Polk South, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Fort Polk South
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fort Polk South
The cost of installing a solar system in Fort Polk South can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
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 power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,570 per kilowatt in Fort Polk South. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Fort Polk South average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Fort Polk South offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you choose will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Fort Polk South are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $17,917 | 9.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $24,178 | 9.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $30,582 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $37,130 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $43,822 | 8.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $50,658 | 8.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $57,638 | 8.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $64,762 | 8.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
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 Fort Polk South, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fort Polk South?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Fort Polk South?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of 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.