Solar Panel Cost Guide in Old Jefferson, LA (2023 Update)
- Old Jefferson Solar Installation Cost: $17,936
- 25-Year Savings: $27,251
- Payback Period: 9.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Old Jefferson
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Old Jefferson.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Old Jefferson typically cost about 2.57. The average solar panel system size in Old Jefferson 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.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will differ based on your energy needs and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Old Jefferson homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar company in Old Jefferson, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Old Jefferson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,129 |
| 3 years | $-12,514 |
| 5 years | $-8,899 |
| 7 years | $-5,284 |
| 9 years | $-1,669 |
| 11 years | $1,946 |
| 13 years | $5,561 |
| 15 years | $9,176 |
| 17 years | $12,791 |
| 19 years | $16,406 |
| 21 years | $20,021 |
| 23 years | $23,636 |
| 25 years | $27,251 |
Top Solar Installers in Old Jefferson
Many homeowners choose to use a solar installer since installing solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Old Jefferson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Old Jefferson
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Old Jefferson: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 $2,570. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, 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 keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Old Jefferson is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Old Jefferson know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $2.67 | $11,226 | $15,958 | 10.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $21,566 | 10.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $27,317 | 9.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $33,212 | 9.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $39,251 | 9.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $45,434 | 9.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $51,761 | 9.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $58,232 | 8.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose 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 some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
- Contract: Before signing 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 what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar panel system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
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 Old Jefferson, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Old Jefferson?
The average cost of solar panels in Old Jefferson 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Old Jefferson?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $906.14 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Old Jefferson?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 higher 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.