Solar Panel Cost Guide in Crystal, MN (2023 Update)
- Crystal Solar Installation Cost: $14,314
- 25-Year Savings: $21,472
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Crystal
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Crystal.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Crystal, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.84 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Crystal is around 7.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,314 for a solar installation, or $20,469 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Crystal homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Crystal
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,882 |
| 3 years | $-10,019 |
| 5 years | $-7,156 |
| 7 years | $-4,294 |
| 9 years | $-1,431 |
| 11 years | $1,432 |
| 13 years | $4,295 |
| 15 years | $7,158 |
| 17 years | $10,021 |
| 19 years | $12,884 |
| 21 years | $15,747 |
| 23 years | $18,610 |
| 25 years | $21,472 |
Top Solar Installers in Crystal
Many homeowners decide to use a solar panel installer since trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your location and energy consumption, but going with a solar company can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 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 depends on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Crystal, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Crystal, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. 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're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Crystal, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $17,409 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.90 | $16,222 | $23,530 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.84 | $19,880 | $29,810 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.78 | $23,379 | $36,249 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.73 | $26,719 | $42,847 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.67 | $29,900 | $49,604 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.61 | $32,921 | $56,520 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.56 | $35,784 | $63,596 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Crystal, MN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Crystal?
This is a difficult 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront 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 areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Crystal, 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 Crystal?
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.