Solar Panel Cost Guide in Westphalia, MD (2023 Update)
- Westphalia Solar Installation Cost: $10,577
- 25-Year Savings: $11,327
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Westphalia
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Westphalia.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Westphalia, the average cost of a solar system is 2.77 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.5-kW system would cost about $10,568 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Westphalia
| 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 Westphalia
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since trying to install solar panels by yourself can be hard. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your location and energy consumption, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Westphalia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Westphalia
Although the average cost of a solar system in Westphalia is $10,568, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The kind 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, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Westphalia average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Westphalia, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you choose will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to more resources and better 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 discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $11,993 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $16,301 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $20,765 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $25,383 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $30,156 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $35,085 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $40,169 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $45,407 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar panel system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
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 Westphalia, MD Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Westphalia?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $803.09 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.