Solar Panel Cost Guide in Vivian, LA (2023 Update)
- Vivian Solar Installation Cost: $18,404
- 25-Year Savings: $26,442
- Payback Period: 10.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Vivian
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Vivian.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Vivian generally cost around 2.57. Since a 10.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Vivian, the average price of going solar will be about $18,404 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Vivian can save about $17,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Vivian
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,610 |
| 3 years | $-13,022 |
| 5 years | $-9,435 |
| 7 years | $-5,847 |
| 9 years | $-2,259 |
| 11 years | $1,329 |
| 13 years | $4,916 |
| 15 years | $8,504 |
| 17 years | $12,092 |
| 19 years | $15,679 |
| 21 years | $19,267 |
| 23 years | $22,855 |
| 25 years | $26,442 |
Top Solar Installers in Vivian
When going solar, many homeowners decide to use a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Vivian:
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 Vivian
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Vivian
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Vivian is $18,404, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, 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. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Vivian, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, 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 solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Vivian, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Vivian have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $15,068 | 10.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $20,378 | 10.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $25,832 | 10.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $31,430 | 10.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $37,172 | 9.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $43,058 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $49,088 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $55,262 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
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 Vivian, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Vivian?
This is a difficult 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Vivian?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Vivian, 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.
How long do solar panels last in Vivian?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.