Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sartell, MN (2025 Update)

  • Sartell Solar Installation Cost: $20,100
  • 25-Year Savings: $9,902
  • Payback Period: 14.9 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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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 Sartell

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Sartell.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sartell, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Sartell, most homeowners require a 7.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $20,100, or $28,743 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Sartell homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the high upfront cost, the average Sartell homeowner can save around $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Sartell

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-18,900
3 years$-16,500
5 years$-14,100
7 years$-11,700
9 years$-9,299
11 years$-6,899
13 years$-4,499
15 years$-2,099
17 years$301
19 years$2,702
21 years$5,102
23 years$7,502
25 years$9,902

Top Solar Installers in Sartell

Many homeowners choose to use a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and lower the cost of maintenance over the lifespan of your panels.

If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:

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See all of the solar companies in Sartell

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sartell

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Sartell is $20,100, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,030.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Sartell, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Sartell provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panels can affect your pricing. Sartell’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Sartell are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.19$17,603$10,86615.5 years
8 kW$4.11$23,019$14,93915.2 years
10 kW$4.03$28,210$19,23814.9 years
12 kW$3.95$33,175$23,76314.6 years
14 kW$3.87$37,914$28,51314.3 years
16 kW$3.79$42,428$33,48914.0 years
18 kW$3.71$46,716$38,69113.7 years
20 kW$3.63$50,778$44,11813.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar panel company you go with will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:

  • Contract: When looking over your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you choose.
  • Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
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EcoWatch's Sartell, MN Solar Cost FAQs

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

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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Sartell?

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 Sartell?

On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 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.

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.