Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ponchatoula, LA (2023 Update)
- Ponchatoula Solar Installation Cost: $17,862
- 25-Year Savings: $25,779
- Payback Period: 10.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ponchatoula
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Ponchatoula.
In Ponchatoula, solar panels cost about 2.57 per watt on average. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Ponchatoula, most homeowners require a 9.9-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $17,864, or $25,546 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Ponchatoula homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ponchatoula
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,716 |
| 3 years | $-17,425 |
| 5 years | $-17,134 |
| 7 years | $-16,843 |
| 9 years | $-16,553 |
| 11 years | $-16,262 |
| 13 years | $-15,971 |
| 15 years | $-15,680 |
| 17 years | $-15,389 |
| 19 years | $-15,098 |
| 21 years | $-14,807 |
| 23 years | $-14,516 |
| 25 years | $-14,225 |
Top Solar Installers in Ponchatoula
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra energy and expertise. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your location and energy consumption, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Ponchatoula:
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 Ponchatoula
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ponchatoula
For many Ponchatoula homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Ponchatoula, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,570 per kilowatt in Ponchatoula. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Ponchatoula average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Ponchatoula to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time due to interest. It's wise 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 how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Ponchatoula is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. Additionally, some companies in Ponchatoula are more knowledgeable 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 | $15,147 | 10.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $20,483 | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $25,964 | 10.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $31,588 | 10.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $37,357 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $43,269 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $49,325 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $55,526 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Ponchatoula, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ponchatoula?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Ponchatoula?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How will installing solar panels impact how much my home is worth?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Ponchatoula is currently $167,996, which means you could be looking at a value of about $6,888 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Ponchatoula is a rewarding investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.