Solar Panel Cost Guide in Winnsboro, LA (2023 Update)
- Winnsboro Solar Installation Cost: $18,314
- 25-Year Savings: $21,605
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Winnsboro
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Winnsboro.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Winnsboro generally cost about 2.57. The average Winnsboro homeowner needs a 10.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,314 with the federal tax credit, or $26,189 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Winnsboro homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Winnsboro can save around $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Winnsboro for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Winnsboro
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,717 |
| 3 years | $-13,524 |
| 5 years | $-10,330 |
| 7 years | $-7,137 |
| 9 years | $-3,943 |
| 11 years | $-750 |
| 13 years | $2,444 |
| 15 years | $5,637 |
| 17 years | $8,831 |
| 19 years | $12,024 |
| 21 years | $15,218 |
| 23 years | $18,411 |
| 25 years | $21,605 |
Top Solar Installers in Winnsboro
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and know-how. For that reason, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Winnsboro
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Winnsboro
There are many factors that can influence your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Winnsboro, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,570 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Winnsboro, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Winnsboro is the company you get to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to greater resources and bulk 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 | $12,298 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.62 | $14,680 | $16,686 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.57 | $17,990 | $21,217 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.52 | $21,156 | $25,892 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.47 | $24,179 | $30,711 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.42 | $27,057 | $35,674 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,791 | $40,781 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.31 | $32,382 | $46,032 | 10.3 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 models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
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 Winnsboro, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Winnsboro?
The average cost of solar panels in Winnsboro is about $12,850 for a 5-kW system and $25,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How will installing solar panels impact my property value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Winnsboro is currently $86,900, so you could be looking at a value of about $3,563 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Winnsboro is a worthwhile investment.
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 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 install 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.