Solar Panel Cost Guide in Arden Hills, MN (Mar 2023)
- Arden Hills Solar Installation Cost: $14,353
- 25-Year Savings: $21,433
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Arden Hills
Here's how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Arden Hills.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Arden Hills, the average cost of a solar system is 2.84 per watt. The average Arden Hills homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,353 with the federal tax credit, or $20,525 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Arden Hills homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Despite the high upfront cost, the average Arden Hills homeowner can save around $19,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Arden Hills, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Arden Hills
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,922 |
| 3 years | $-10,059 |
| 5 years | $-7,196 |
| 7 years | $-4,333 |
| 9 years | $-1,470 |
| 11 years | $1,392 |
| 13 years | $4,255 |
| 15 years | $7,118 |
| 17 years | $9,981 |
| 19 years | $12,844 |
| 21 years | $15,707 |
| 23 years | $18,570 |
| 25 years | $21,433 |
Top Solar Installers in Arden Hills
Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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
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 Arden Hills
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Arden Hills
There are a number of 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 panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Arden Hills, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,840 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Arden Hills provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will influence your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Arden Hills know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $2.95 | $12,405 | $17,351 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.90 | $16,222 | $23,453 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.84 | $19,880 | $29,713 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.78 | $23,379 | $36,133 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.73 | $26,719 | $42,712 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.67 | $29,900 | $49,450 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.61 | $32,921 | $56,347 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.56 | $35,784 | $63,403 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose greatly influences your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you go with.
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
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 Arden Hills, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Arden Hills?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,200 for a 5-kW system and $28,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Arden Hills?
You can't get solar panels for free in Arden Hills. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Arden Hills, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Arden Hills?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.