Solar Panel Cost Guide in China, ME (2025 Update)

  • China Solar Installation Cost: $14,502
  • 25-Year Savings: $11,835
  • Payback Period: 16.0 Years

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By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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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 China

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in China.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in China typically cost about 4.Because a 5.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in China, the average price of going solar will be about $14,502 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average China 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.Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in China can save about $16,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

To get a free estimate from a vetted solar company in China, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in China

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-13,364
3 years$-11,087
5 years$-8,811
7 years$-6,534
9 years$-4,258
11 years$-1,981
13 years$295
15 years$2,572
17 years$4,848
19 years$7,125
21 years$9,401
23 years$11,678
25 years$13,954

Top Solar Installers in China

When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to use a solar installer since installing a solar system yourself can be a time-consuming project. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for you.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:

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See all of the solar companies in China

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in China

The cost of installing a solar system in China can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.

Solar Equipment

One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $3,800 per kilowatt in China.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in China offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installation company you select will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.95$16,598$8,31216.7 years
8 kW$3.88$21,706$11,50916.3 years
10 kW$3.80$26,600$14,91816.0 years
12 kW$3.72$31,282$18,54015.7 years
14 kW$3.65$35,750$22,37515.4 years
16 kW$3.57$40,006$26,42315.1 years
18 kW$3.50$44,050$30,68314.7 years
20 kW$3.42$47,880$35,15614.4 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 brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of options before deciding.
  • Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Contract: When looking over your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
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EcoWatch's China, ME Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in China is about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities 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 much can I save on electricity 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 $830.36 per year.

How long do solar panels last in China?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.

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.