Solar Panel Cost Guide in Timberlane, LA (Feb 2023)
- Timberlane Solar Installation Cost: $17,810
- 25-Year Savings: $26,939
- Payback Period: 9.9 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Timberlane
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Timberlane.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Timberlane it's $3 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 9.9 would cost about $17,810 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Timberlane homeowners. 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, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in Timberlane for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Timberlane
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,020 |
| 3 years | $-12,440 |
| 5 years | $-8,860 |
| 7 years | $-5,280 |
| 9 years | $-1,700 |
| 11 years | $1,879 |
| 13 years | $5,459 |
| 15 years | $9,039 |
| 17 years | $12,619 |
| 19 years | $16,199 |
| 21 years | $19,779 |
| 23 years | $23,359 |
| 25 years | $26,939 |
Top Solar Installers in Timberlane
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra labor and handiness. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for your home.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Timberlane, the EcoWatch team has compiled 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Timberlane
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Timberlane
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Timberlane is $17,810, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Timberlane, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,570 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Timberlane, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only 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 securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can influence the cost. Timberlane's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $15,896 | 10.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $21,482 | 10.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $27,212 | 9.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $33,086 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $39,105 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $45,267 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $51,573 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $58,022 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will be a major factor in determining 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 some important things you should consider, such as:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Timberlane, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Timberlane?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Timberlane?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid 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 do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.