Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sauk Rapids, MN (2024 Update)
- Sauk Rapids Solar Installation Cost: $20,152
- 25-Year Savings: $21,077
- Payback Period: 14.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sauk Rapids
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Sauk Rapids.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Sauk Rapids it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.1-kW system would cost about $20,152 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Sauk Rapids depending on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.With average savings of about $19,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Sauk Rapids find installing solar panels can pay off big.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sauk Rapids
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,110 |
| 3 years | $-17,027 |
| 5 years | $-14,944 |
| 7 years | $-12,862 |
| 9 years | $-10,779 |
| 11 years | $-8,696 |
| 13 years | $-6,613 |
| 15 years | $-4,530 |
| 17 years | $-2,447 |
| 19 years | $-364 |
| 21 years | $1,719 |
| 23 years | $3,801 |
| 25 years | $5,884 |
Top Solar Installers in Sauk Rapids
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to use a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for your family.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Sauk Rapids
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sauk Rapids
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Sauk Rapids is $20,152, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $4,030. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Sauk Rapids provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Sauk Rapids homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can play a part in determining your pricing. Sauk Rapids’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. 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 at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that offers 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 | $12,028 | 14.9 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $16,488 | 14.6 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $21,174 | 14.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $26,086 | 14.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $31,224 | 13.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $36,587 | 13.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $42,176 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $47,991 | 12.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Sauk Rapids, MN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sauk Rapids?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sauk Rapids?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Does Sauk Rapids 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 many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.