Solar Panel Cost Guide in Center, MO (2023 Update)
- Center Solar Installation Cost: $12,785
- 25-Year Savings: $22,868
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Center
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Center.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Center, the average cost of solar panels is 2.59 per watt. Since a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Center, the average price of going solar will be about $12,782 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Even with the high initial cost, the average Center homeowner can save around $19,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installer in Center, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Center
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,666 |
| 3 years | $-12,429 |
| 5 years | $-12,191 |
| 7 years | $-11,953 |
| 9 years | $-11,716 |
| 11 years | $-11,478 |
| 13 years | $-11,240 |
| 15 years | $-11,003 |
| 17 years | $-10,765 |
| 19 years | $-10,527 |
| 21 years | $-10,289 |
| 23 years | $-10,052 |
| 25 years | $-9,814 |
Top Solar Installers in Center
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and handiness. For that reason, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Center
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Center
For many Center homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Center, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,590. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Center, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Center to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Center, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Center have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.69 | $11,313 | $19,022 | 9.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $25,652 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $32,428 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $39,349 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $46,415 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $53,625 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $60,981 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $68,482 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from previous customers.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Center, MO Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Center?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,950 for a 5-kW system and $25,900 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 needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Center have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces 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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.