Solar Panel Cost Guide in Waggaman, LA (2024 Update)

  • Waggaman Solar Installation Cost: $26,349
  • 25-Year Savings: $24,622
  • Payback Period: 15.5 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Waggaman

Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Waggaman.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Waggaman, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Waggaman homeowner needs a 9.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $26,349 with the federal tax credit, or $37,679 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Waggaman homeowner. 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 panels is worth paying. On average homeowners in Waggaman see about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Waggaman

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-25,040
3 years $-22,422
5 years $-19,803
7 years $-17,185
9 years $-14,566
11 years $-11,948
13 years $-9,329
15 years $-6,710
17 years $-4,092
19 years $-1,473
21 years $1,145
23 years $3,764
25 years $6,382

Top Solar Installers in Waggaman

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Waggaman, therefore optimizing your ROI.

You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Waggaman

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Waggaman

The cost of installing a solar system in Waggaman can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Waggaman, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,800 for each additional kilowatt you need.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 opt for 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. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Waggaman average.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Waggaman offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Waggaman, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.

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 $9,109 16.1 years
8 kW $3.88 $21,706 $12,571 15.8 years
10 kW $3.80 $26,600 $16,246 15.5 years
12 kW $3.72 $31,282 $20,133 15.2 years
14 kW $3.65 $35,750 $24,234 14.9 years
16 kW $3.57 $40,006 $28,547 14.6 years
18 kW $3.50 $44,050 $33,073 14.3 years
20 kW $3.42 $47,880 $37,812 14.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before making your decision.
  • Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
  • Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Waggaman, LA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Waggaman?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 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 needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Can solar panels eliminate my energy bills?

It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Waggaman, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for 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?

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know 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 home 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.

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