Solar Panel Cost Guide in Slidell, LA (2024 Update)
- Slidell Solar Installation Cost: $26,333
- 25-Year Savings: $29,269
- Payback Period: 14.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Slidell
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Slidell.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Slidell typically cost about 4.The average solar panel system size in Slidell is around 9.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $26,333 for a solar installation, or $37,656 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Slidell homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Slidell for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Slidell
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-24,756 |
| 3 years | $-21,600 |
| 5 years | $-18,445 |
| 7 years | $-15,290 |
| 9 years | $-12,135 |
| 11 years | $-8,979 |
| 13 years | $-5,824 |
| 15 years | $-2,669 |
| 17 years | $486 |
| 19 years | $3,642 |
| 21 years | $6,797 |
| 23 years | $9,952 |
| 25 years | $13,107 |
Top Solar Installers in Slidell
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Slidell, therefore optimizing your ROI.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Slidell
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Slidell
For many Slidell homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Slidell, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few 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 affects the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Slidell, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Slidell, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.95 | $16,598 | $11,935 | 14.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $16,338 | 14.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $20,955 | 14.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $25,784 | 13.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $30,827 | 13.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $36,082 | 13.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $41,549 | 12.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $47,230 | 12.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar energy system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Slidell, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Slidell?
The average cost of solar panels in Slidell is about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Slidell?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Slidell, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 install 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.