Solar Panel Cost Guide in Glenarden, MD (2023 Update)
- Glenarden Solar Installation Cost: $10,577
- 25-Year Savings: $11,317
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Glenarden
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Glenarden.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Glenarden typically cost about 2.77. Because a 5.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Glenarden, the average price of going solar will be about $10,568 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Glenarden homeowner. The cost 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 cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Glenarden see about $15,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a top solar installer in Glenarden, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Glenarden
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,504 |
| 3 years | $-10,358 |
| 5 years | $-10,212 |
| 7 years | $-10,066 |
| 9 years | $-9,920 |
| 11 years | $-9,774 |
| 13 years | $-9,628 |
| 15 years | $-9,482 |
| 17 years | $-9,336 |
| 19 years | $-9,190 |
| 21 years | $-9,044 |
| 23 years | $-8,898 |
| 25 years | $-8,752 |
Top Solar Installers in Glenarden
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra energy and know-how. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Glenarden
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Glenarden
For many Glenarden homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Glenarden, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Glenarden, one of the most important 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 total cost can increase by about $2,770 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Glenarden, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. 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 out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to add 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 remaining major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Glenarden, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $11,982 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $16,287 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $20,746 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $25,361 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $30,131 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $35,056 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $40,136 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $45,371 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- 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 installation process.
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Glenarden, MD Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Glenarden?
The average cost of solar panels in Glenarden is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Glenarden?
A solar panel system isn't free in Glenarden, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does Glenarden have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.