Solar Panel Cost Guide in Indian Head, MD (2024 Update)
- Indian Head Solar Installation Cost: $13,435
- 25-Year Savings: $9,452
- Payback Period: 16.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Indian Head
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Indian Head.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Indian Head it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 5.4-kW system would cost about $13,435 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.With typical savings of about $14,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Indian Head find installing solar panels can be quite rewarding.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Indian Head, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Indian Head
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,100 |
| 3 years | $-9,431 |
| 5 years | $-6,762 |
| 7 years | $-4,093 |
| 9 years | $-1,424 |
| 11 years | $1,245 |
| 13 years | $3,914 |
| 15 years | $6,583 |
| 17 years | $9,252 |
| 19 years | $11,921 |
| 21 years | $14,590 |
| 23 years | $17,260 |
| 25 years | $19,929 |
Top Solar Installers in Indian Head
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a dangerous project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Indian Head
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Indian Head
There are many criteria that can play into 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
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,540.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Indian Head, 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 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 out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar system can affect your pricing. Indian Head’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Indian Head have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $3.68 | $15,463 | $6,631 | 17.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.61 | $20,220 | $9,238 | 17.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.54 | $24,780 | $12,043 | 16.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.47 | $29,141 | $15,046 | 16.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.40 | $33,304 | $18,248 | 16.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.33 | $37,269 | $21,648 | 15.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.26 | $41,036 | $25,246 | 15.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,604 | $29,042 | 15.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system’s energy production.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Indian Head, MD Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Indian Head?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,700 for a 5-kW system and $35,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Indian Head have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates 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.
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 how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 get 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.