Solar Panel Cost Guide in New Iberia, LA (Mar 2023)
- New Iberia Solar Installation Cost: $18,098
- 25-Year Savings: $26,901
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in New Iberia
We break down average solar pricing in New Iberia.
The average cost of solar panels in New Iberia is 2.57 per watt. The average New Iberia homeowner needs a 10.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,098 with the federal tax credit, or $25,880 before the 30% 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 going solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. With average savings of about $17,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in New Iberia find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in New Iberia for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in New Iberia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,298 |
| 3 years | $-12,698 |
| 5 years | $-9,098 |
| 7 years | $-5,498 |
| 9 years | $-1,898 |
| 11 years | $1,702 |
| 13 years | $5,302 |
| 15 years | $8,902 |
| 17 years | $12,502 |
| 19 years | $16,101 |
| 21 years | $19,701 |
| 23 years | $23,301 |
| 25 years | $26,901 |
Top Solar Installers in New Iberia
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra labor and handiness. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in New Iberia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in New Iberia
There are a number of factors that can play into your 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 cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production require 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 $2,570. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like New Iberia, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a solid route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $15,610 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $21,101 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $26,736 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $32,515 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $38,438 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $44,505 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $50,715 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $57,070 | 9.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will influence not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's New Iberia, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in New Iberia?
The average cost of solar panels in New Iberia is about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in New Iberia?
You can't get solar panels for free in New Iberia. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in New Iberia?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had 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.