Solar Panel Cost Guide in Houma, LA (2024 Update)

  • Houma Solar Installation Cost: $26,297
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,744
  • Payback Period: 16.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Houma

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Houma.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Houma typically cost about 4.Since a 9.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Houma, the average price of going solar will be about $26,297 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 actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Houma homeowner can save about $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.

For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Houma

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-24,987
3 years $-22,369
5 years $-19,750
7 years $-17,132
9 years $-14,513
11 years $-11,895
13 years $-9,276
15 years $-6,658
17 years $-4,039
19 years $-1,420
21 years $1,198
23 years $3,817
25 years $6,435

Top Solar Installers in Houma

Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra energy and expertise. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.

You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Houma:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Houma

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Houma

The cost of installing a solar system in Houma can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Houma, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,800 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Houma, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Houma homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to factor 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

A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Houma is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you’ll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Houma 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 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 $3.95 $16,598 $7,392 17.3 years
8 kW $3.88 $21,706 $10,282 17.0 years
10 kW $3.80 $26,600 $13,384 16.6 years
12 kW $3.72 $31,282 $16,700 16.3 years
14 kW $3.65 $35,750 $20,228 16.0 years
16 kW $3.57 $40,006 $23,969 15.6 years
18 kW $3.50 $44,050 $27,922 15.3 years
20 kW $3.42 $47,880 $32,089 15.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
  • Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Houma, LA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Houma?

This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

How will installing solar panels impact how much my home is worth?

Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Houma is currently $181,247, so you can look forward to a value of about $7,431 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Houma is a fruitful investment.

How long do solar panels last in Houma?

Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.

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.

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