Solar Panel Cost Guide in Melrose, MN (2025 Update)
- Melrose Solar Installation Cost: $20,049
- 25-Year Savings: $15,099
- Payback Period: 17.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Melrose
We go over average solar pricing in Melrose.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Melrose it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.1-kW system would cost about $20,049 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Melrose see about $16,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in Melrose for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Melrose
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,008 |
| 3 years | $-16,925 |
| 5 years | $-14,842 |
| 7 years | $-12,759 |
| 9 years | $-10,676 |
| 11 years | $-8,594 |
| 13 years | $-6,511 |
| 15 years | $-4,428 |
| 17 years | $-2,345 |
| 19 years | $-262 |
| 21 years | $1,821 |
| 23 years | $3,904 |
| 25 years | $5,986 |
Top Solar Installers in Melrose
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance over time.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Melrose
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Melrose
Though the average cost of a solar system in Melrose is $20,049, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $4,030 per kilowatt in Melrose.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Melrose, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $7,072 | 17.8 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $9,880 | 17.5 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $12,914 | 17.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $16,174 | 16.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $19,660 | 16.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $23,371 | 16.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $27,308 | 15.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $31,471 | 15.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will influence not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, such as:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from previous customers.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you go with.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
EcoWatch's Melrose, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Melrose?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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 higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities 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.
Does Melrose have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level 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.