Solar Panel Cost Guide in Robbinsdale, MN (2023 Update)

  • Robbinsdale Solar Installation Cost: $20,316
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,469
  • Payback Period: 14.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated October 25, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Robbinsdale

Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Robbinsdale.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Robbinsdale it's 2.84 per watt.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Robbinsdale, most homeowners require a 7.2-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $14,314, or $20,469 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Robbinsdale 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 significant initial cost, the average Robbinsdale homeowner can save around $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.

To get a free quote from a top solar installer in Robbinsdale, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Robbinsdale

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 Robbinsdale

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Companies can also have access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.

You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Robbinsdale

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Robbinsdale

Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Robbinsdale: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $2,840. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Robbinsdale, 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 solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Robbinsdale, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It's a good idea 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

The solar company you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Robbinsdale, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 $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 type of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies have different panels.
  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
  • Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Robbinsdale, MN Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Robbinsdale?

The average cost of solar panels in Robbinsdale is about $14,200 for a 5-kW system and $28,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

What other factors should I consider apart from 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 Robbinsdale?

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 give you credit toward your future electricity 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 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.

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