Solar Panel Cost Guide in Burnsville, MN (2024 Update)

  • Burnsville Solar Installation Cost: $20,281
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,950
  • Payback Period: 14.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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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 Burnsville

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Burnsville.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Burnsville generally cost around 4.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Burnsville, most homeowners require a 7.2-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $20,281, or $29,002 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in Burnsville, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Burnsville

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-19,001
3 years $-16,442
5 years $-13,883
7 years $-11,324
9 years $-8,766
11 years $-6,207
13 years $-3,648
15 years $-1,089
17 years $1,470
19 years $4,029
21 years $6,588
23 years $9,147
25 years $11,706

Top Solar Installers in Burnsville

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and handiness. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Another great thing about going with a reputable solar installer is that it'll provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.

There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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

See all of the solar companies in Burnsville

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Burnsville

Though the average cost of a solar system in Burnsville is $20,281, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation 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 $4,030.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Burnsville average.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Burnsville have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher 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 consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in Burnsville, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $4.19 $17,603 $11,809 15.0 years
8 kW $4.11 $23,019 $16,197 14.7 years
10 kW $4.03 $28,210 $20,810 14.4 years
12 kW $3.95 $33,175 $25,649 14.1 years
14 kW $3.87 $37,914 $30,714 13.8 years
16 kW $3.79 $42,428 $36,004 13.5 years
18 kW $3.71 $46,716 $41,520 13.2 years
20 kW $3.63 $50,778 $47,262 12.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Burnsville, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
  • Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
  • Reputation: Long-running companies 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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

EcoWatch's Burnsville, MN Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Burnsville?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,150 for a 5-kW system and $40,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?

The initial cost is a key 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 trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Does Burnsville have a net metering program?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.

How long do solar panels last in Burnsville?

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 larger 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.

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