Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dayton, MN (2025 Update)
- Dayton Solar Installation Cost: $20,208
- 25-Year Savings: $19,464
- Payback Period: 15.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dayton
We go over average solar pricing in Dayton.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Dayton it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.2-kW system would cost about $20,208 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs may look different based on your specific situation and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Dayton homeowners see about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dayton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,929 |
| 3 years | $-16,370 |
| 5 years | $-13,811 |
| 7 years | $-11,252 |
| 9 years | $-8,693 |
| 11 years | $-6,135 |
| 13 years | $-3,576 |
| 15 years | $-1,017 |
| 17 years | $1,542 |
| 19 years | $4,101 |
| 21 years | $6,660 |
| 23 years | $9,219 |
| 25 years | $11,778 |
Top Solar Installers in Dayton
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and handiness. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for you.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Dayton, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
See all of the solar companies in Dayton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dayton
The cost of installing a solar system in Dayton can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it’s a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Dayton homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Dayton is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, you’ll have many options for solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.You may notice 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 larger companies.
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 | $10,627 | 15.6 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $14,621 | 15.3 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $18,841 | 15.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $23,286 | 14.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $27,957 | 14.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $32,853 | 14.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $37,975 | 13.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $43,323 | 13.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide 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. While there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
EcoWatch's Dayton, MN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dayton?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $20,150 for a 5-kW system and $40,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Dayton?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Does Dayton have a net metering program?
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 utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Dayton?
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.