Solar Panel Cost Guide in Crystal, MN (2024 Update)
- Crystal Solar Installation Cost: $20,316
- 25-Year Savings: $21,469
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Crystal
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Crystal.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Crystal is 4 per watt.The average Crystal homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $20,316 with the federal tax credit, or $29,052 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Crystal homeowners. 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 large initial cost, the average Crystal homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Crystal
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,037 |
| 3 years | $-16,478 |
| 5 years | $-13,919 |
| 7 years | $-11,360 |
| 9 years | $-8,801 |
| 11 years | $-6,242 |
| 13 years | $-3,684 |
| 15 years | $-1,125 |
| 17 years | $1,434 |
| 19 years | $3,993 |
| 21 years | $6,552 |
| 23 years | $9,111 |
| 25 years | $11,670 |
Top Solar Installers in Crystal
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and handiness. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar company as well, which can save you more money over time.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Crystal
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Crystal
The cost of installing a solar system in Crystal can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Crystal, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $4,030 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Crystal, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Crystal homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Crystal is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $12,211 | 14.8 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $16,733 | 14.5 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $21,480 | 14.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $26,453 | 13.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $31,652 | 13.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $37,076 | 13.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $42,726 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $48,602 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. 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 make sure you ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
EcoWatch's Crystal, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Crystal?
The average cost of solar panels in Crystal is about $20,150 for a 5-kW system and $40,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Crystal?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Does Crystal have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to 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 uses 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.