Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gretna, LA (2024 Update)
- Gretna Solar Installation Cost: $26,333
- 25-Year Savings: $26,940
- Payback Period: 14.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gretna
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Gretna.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Gretna, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.9-kW system would cost about $26,333 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Gretna homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the high initial cost, the average Gretna homeowner can save about $17,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Gretna, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Gretna
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,024 |
| 3 years | $-22,405 |
| 5 years | $-19,787 |
| 7 years | $-17,168 |
| 9 years | $-14,550 |
| 11 years | $-11,931 |
| 13 years | $-9,313 |
| 15 years | $-6,694 |
| 17 years | $-4,076 |
| 19 years | $-1,457 |
| 21 years | $1,161 |
| 23 years | $3,780 |
| 25 years | $6,399 |
Top Solar Installers in Gretna
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Another great thing about choosing a top solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Gretna:
See all of the solar companies in Gretna
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gretna
There are several factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,800. 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. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Gretna average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining your pricing. Gretna’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and decide on the company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $10,523 | 15.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $14,456 | 15.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $18,602 | 14.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $22,961 | 14.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $27,533 | 14.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $32,317 | 13.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $37,314 | 13.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $42,524 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Gretna, 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:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: It’s important to read your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system’s energy production.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
EcoWatch's Gretna, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Gretna?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Gretna?
Solar panels aren’t free in Gretna, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $904.04 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Gretna?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger 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.