Solar Panel Cost Guide in Port Allen, LA (2023 Update)
- Port Allen Solar Installation Cost: $17,936
- 25-Year Savings: $27,864
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Port Allen
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Port Allen.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Port Allen typically cost around 2.57. Because a 10.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Port Allen, the average price of going solar will be about $17,936 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Port Allen homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Port Allen for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Port Allen
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,104 |
| 3 years | $-12,440 |
| 5 years | $-8,776 |
| 7 years | $-5,112 |
| 9 years | $-1,448 |
| 11 years | $2,216 |
| 13 years | $5,880 |
| 15 years | $9,544 |
| 17 years | $13,208 |
| 19 years | $16,872 |
| 21 years | $20,536 |
| 23 years | $24,200 |
| 25 years | $27,864 |
Top Solar Installers in Port Allen
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you're searching for a solar company in Port Allen, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Port Allen
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Port Allen
For many Port Allen homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Port Allen, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will largely impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Further, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Port Allen to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest. Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Port Allen homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Port Allen, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $16,336 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $22,069 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $27,946 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $33,967 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $40,132 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $46,441 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $52,894 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $59,491 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Port Allen, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Port Allen?
The average cost of solar panels in Port Allen 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 use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Port Allen?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it usually 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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Does Port Allen have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily 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 cover 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.