Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chesterfield, MO (2023 Update)
- Chesterfield Solar Installation Cost: $13,111
- 25-Year Savings: $16,840
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chesterfield
We go over average solar pricing in Chesterfield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Chesterfield, the average cost of solar panels is 2.59 per watt. The average Chesterfield homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,108 with the federal tax credit, or $18,744 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Chesterfield depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Chesterfield, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chesterfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,012 |
| 3 years | $-12,812 |
| 5 years | $-12,612 |
| 7 years | $-12,413 |
| 9 years | $-12,213 |
| 11 years | $-12,013 |
| 13 years | $-11,814 |
| 15 years | $-11,614 |
| 17 years | $-11,414 |
| 19 years | $-11,214 |
| 21 years | $-11,015 |
| 23 years | $-10,815 |
| 25 years | $-10,615 |
Top Solar Installers in Chesterfield
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra energy and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Chesterfield, therefore optimizing your ROI.
If you're searching for a solar company in Chesterfield, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Chesterfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chesterfield
For many Chesterfield homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Chesterfield, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. 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 often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Chesterfield to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest. It's a good idea to include 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you pick will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Chesterfield know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 end up saving you 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 | $13,536 | 11.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $18,338 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $23,285 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $28,378 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $33,615 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $38,997 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $44,524 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $50,197 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid 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 service, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Chesterfield, MO Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Chesterfield?
The average cost of solar panels in Chesterfield is about $12,950 for a 5-kW system and $25,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Chesterfield?
A solar panel system isn't free in Chesterfield, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does Chesterfield have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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 buy 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.