Solar Panel Cost Guide in White Bear, MN (2023 Update)
- White Bear Solar Installation Cost: $14,353
- 25-Year Savings: $21,377
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in White Bear
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in White Bear.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in White Bear generally cost around 2.84. Because a 7.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in White Bear, the average price of going solar will be about $14,353 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you may look different based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in White Bear can save around $19,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in White Bear
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,924 |
| 3 years | $-10,066 |
| 5 years | $-7,207 |
| 7 years | $-4,349 |
| 9 years | $-1,490 |
| 11 years | $1,368 |
| 13 years | $4,226 |
| 15 years | $7,085 |
| 17 years | $9,943 |
| 19 years | $12,802 |
| 21 years | $15,660 |
| 23 years | $18,518 |
| 25 years | $21,377 |
Top Solar Installers in White Bear
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and handiness. That's one of the reasons most people choose a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies provide can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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
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
See all of the solar companies in White Bear
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in White Bear
The cost of installing a solar system in White Bear can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better 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 $2,840. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in White Bear offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will impact your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in White Bear have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.95 | $12,405 | $17,305 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.90 | $16,222 | $23,391 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.84 | $19,880 | $29,636 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.78 | $23,379 | $36,041 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.73 | $26,719 | $42,604 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.67 | $29,900 | $49,327 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.61 | $32,921 | $56,208 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.56 | $35,784 | $63,249 | 9.0 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 durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
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
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
EcoWatch's White Bear, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in White Bear?
The average cost of solar panels in White Bear 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in White Bear?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in White Bear?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in White Bear?
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 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.