Solar Panel Cost Guide in Windom, MN (2023 Update)
- Windom Solar Installation Cost: $14,094
- 25-Year Savings: $14,947
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Windom
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Windom.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Windom, the average cost of a solar system is 2.84 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.1-kW system would cost about $14,095 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Windom based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Windom can save about $16,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
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 Windom
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,997 |
| 3 years | $-13,803 |
| 5 years | $-13,610 |
| 7 years | $-13,416 |
| 9 years | $-13,222 |
| 11 years | $-13,029 |
| 13 years | $-12,835 |
| 15 years | $-12,642 |
| 17 years | $-12,448 |
| 19 years | $-12,254 |
| 21 years | $-12,061 |
| 23 years | $-11,867 |
| 25 years | $-11,674 |
Top Solar Installers in Windom
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since installing solar panels by yourself can be a lot of work. The expertise that solar companies provide can be valuable as well, particularly if you don't quite know what type of solar equipment would be right for your home.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Windom, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Windom
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Windom
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Windom: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels 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 production need 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. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Windom average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Windom have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total 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 finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Windom, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $12,173 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.90 | $16,222 | $16,548 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.84 | $19,880 | $21,083 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.78 | $23,379 | $25,777 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.73 | $26,719 | $30,629 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.67 | $29,900 | $35,641 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.61 | $32,921 | $40,812 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.56 | $35,784 | $46,142 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- 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: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over completely 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 if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
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 Windom, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Windom?
The average cost of solar panels in Windom 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 things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Windom?
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 financial benefits from going solar.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Windom, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.