Solar Panel Cost Guide in Plaquemine, LA (2023 Update)
- Plaquemine Solar Installation Cost: $17,936
- 25-Year Savings: $24,265
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Plaquemine
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Plaquemine.
In Plaquemine, solar panels cost about 2.57 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 10.0-kW system would cost about $17,936 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Plaquemine for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Plaquemine
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,248 |
| 3 years | $-12,872 |
| 5 years | $-9,496 |
| 7 years | $-6,120 |
| 9 years | $-2,744 |
| 11 years | $633 |
| 13 years | $4,009 |
| 15 years | $7,385 |
| 17 years | $10,761 |
| 19 years | $14,137 |
| 21 years | $17,513 |
| 23 years | $20,889 |
| 25 years | $24,265 |
Top Solar Installers in Plaquemine
Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can benefit from and by providing warranties and repairs.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Plaquemine
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Plaquemine
There are a number of criteria that can affect your total 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
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Plaquemine, one of the most important 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 consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,570 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can impact the cost. Plaquemine's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Plaquemine have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $14,174 | 11.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $19,187 | 10.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $24,343 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $29,643 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $35,088 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $40,676 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $46,408 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $52,284 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will affect 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 consider, such as:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance 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 good company.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Plaquemine, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Plaquemine?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Plaquemine?
You can't get solar panels for free in Plaquemine. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Plaquemine?
Even 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.