Solar Panel Cost Guide in Patterson, LA (2023 Update)
- Patterson Solar Installation Cost: $17,975
- 25-Year Savings: $25,078
- Payback Period: 10.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Patterson
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Patterson.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Patterson generally cost about 2.57. Using this figure, a typical 10.0-kW system would cost about $17,972 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar company in Patterson, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Patterson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,831 |
| 3 years | $-17,544 |
| 5 years | $-17,257 |
| 7 years | $-16,970 |
| 9 years | $-16,683 |
| 11 years | $-16,396 |
| 13 years | $-16,109 |
| 15 years | $-15,822 |
| 17 years | $-15,535 |
| 19 years | $-15,248 |
| 21 years | $-14,961 |
| 23 years | $-14,674 |
| 25 years | $-14,387 |
Top Solar Installers in Patterson
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a stressful task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installation companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can take advantage of and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Patterson, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Patterson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Patterson
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Patterson: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,570. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Patterson average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Patterson, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can influence how much it costs. Patterson's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for 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 | $2.67 | $11,226 | $14,628 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $19,791 | 10.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $25,099 | 10.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $30,550 | 10.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $36,146 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $41,885 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $47,769 | 9.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $53,796 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Patterson, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about your solar system's energy production.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Patterson, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Patterson?
The average cost of solar panels in Patterson 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 things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Patterson?
You can't get solar panels for free in Patterson. 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 prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Patterson have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.