Solar Panel Cost Guide in Macon, MO (2025 Update)
- Macon Solar Installation Cost: $17,350
- 25-Year Savings: $24,710
- Payback Period: 11.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Macon
We break down average solar pricing in Macon.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Macon typically cost around 3.The average Macon homeowner needs a 7.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,350 with the federal tax credit, or $24,810 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.With typical savings of about $20,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Macon find installing solar panels can be quite rewarding.
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 Macon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,785 |
| 3 years | $-12,654 |
| 5 years | $-9,523 |
| 7 years | $-6,392 |
| 9 years | $-3,261 |
| 11 years | $-130 |
| 13 years | $3,001 |
| 15 years | $6,132 |
| 17 years | $9,263 |
| 19 years | $12,394 |
| 21 years | $15,525 |
| 23 years | $18,656 |
| 25 years | $21,787 |
Top Solar Installers in Macon
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Some solar companies, particularly local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Macon, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Macon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Macon
There are a number of criteria that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $3,370 per kilowatt in Macon.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Macon, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. 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 Macon to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Macon, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.50 | $14,720 | $16,316 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.44 | $19,249 | $22,131 | 11.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.37 | $23,590 | $28,136 | 11.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.30 | $27,742 | $34,330 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.24 | $31,705 | $40,712 | 10.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.17 | $35,479 | $47,282 | 10.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.10 | $39,065 | $54,042 | 10.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.03 | $42,462 | $60,990 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will affect not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, such as:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
EcoWatch's Macon, MO Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Macon?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $16,850 for a 5-kW system and $33,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Macon?
Solar panels aren’t free in Macon, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Does Macon have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity 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?
Even though 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having 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.