Solar Panel Cost Guide in Winona, MN (2024 Update)

  • Winona Solar Installation Cost: $20,483
  • 25-Year Savings: $22,141
  • Payback Period: 14.0 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 Winona

See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Winona.

The average cost of solar panels in Winona is 4 per watt.Because a 7.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Winona, the average price of going solar will be about $20,483 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Winona can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Winona for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Winona

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-19,203
3 years$-16,644
5 years$-14,086
7 years$-11,527
9 years$-8,968
11 years$-6,409
13 years$-3,850
15 years$-1,291
17 years$1,268
19 years$3,827
21 years$6,386
23 years$8,945
25 years$11,503

Top Solar Installers in Winona

Many homeowners choose to hire a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be hard. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for your home.

If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Winona:

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See all of the solar companies in Winona

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Winona

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Winona is $20,483, your actual cost may differ. 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 consider.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,030.The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose 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 power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Winona average.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Winona, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Winona, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.19$17,603$12,62114.6 years
8 kW$4.11$23,019$17,27914.3 years
10 kW$4.03$28,210$22,16314.0 years
12 kW$3.95$33,175$27,27313.7 years
14 kW$3.87$37,914$32,60813.4 years
16 kW$3.79$42,428$38,16913.2 years
18 kW$3.71$46,716$43,95612.9 years
20 kW$3.63$50,778$49,96812.6 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably affects your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
  • Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through 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.
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EcoWatch's Winona, MN Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Winona is about $20,150 for a 5-kW system and $40,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Is going solar worth it?

Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.