Solar Panel Cost Guide in Columbia Heights, MN (2023 Update)
- Columbia Heights Solar Installation Cost: $14,274
- 25-Year Savings: $21,512
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Columbia Heights
We break down average solar pricing in Columbia Heights.
In Columbia Heights, solar panels cost about 2.84 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 7.2-kW system would cost about $14,274 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs may vary based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Columbia Heights see about $19,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in Columbia Heights for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Columbia Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,842 |
| 3 years | $-9,980 |
| 5 years | $-7,117 |
| 7 years | $-4,254 |
| 9 years | $-1,391 |
| 11 years | $1,472 |
| 13 years | $4,335 |
| 15 years | $7,198 |
| 17 years | $10,061 |
| 19 years | $12,924 |
| 21 years | $15,786 |
| 23 years | $18,649 |
| 25 years | $21,512 |
Top Solar Installers in Columbia Heights
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar installers offer can be valuable 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 quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Columbia Heights:
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
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
See all of the solar companies in Columbia Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Columbia Heights
For many Columbia Heights homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Columbia Heights, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $2,840. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Columbia Heights homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. When figuring out 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
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Columbia Heights, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Columbia Heights know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage 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 end up saving you 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 | $17,505 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.90 | $16,222 | $23,658 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.84 | $19,880 | $29,970 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.78 | $23,379 | $36,441 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.73 | $26,719 | $43,071 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.67 | $29,900 | $49,860 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.61 | $32,921 | $56,808 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.56 | $35,784 | $63,915 | 9.0 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 models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- 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.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through carefully 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.
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
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
EcoWatch's Columbia Heights, MN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Columbia Heights?
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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to 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 why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Columbia Heights?
Each state has some form 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 energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size 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 generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.