Solar Panel Cost Guide in Macon, MO (Mar 2023)
- Macon Solar Installation Cost: $13,326
- 25-Year Savings: $24,719
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Macon
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Macon.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Macon generally cost around 2.59. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Macon, most homeowners require a 7.3-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $13,326, or $19,056 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Macon can save around $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Macon, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Macon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,804 |
| 3 years | $-8,760 |
| 5 years | $-5,717 |
| 7 years | $-2,673 |
| 9 years | $370 |
| 11 years | $3,414 |
| 13 years | $6,457 |
| 15 years | $9,501 |
| 17 years | $12,545 |
| 19 years | $15,588 |
| 21 years | $18,632 |
| 23 years | $21,675 |
| 25 years | $24,719 |
Top Solar Installers in Macon
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and handiness. That's why most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for your home.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Macon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Macon
The cost of installing a solar system in Macon can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, 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 around $2,590. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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 extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Macon homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Macon, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Macon have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use 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 | $19,723 | 9.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.64 | $14,794 | $26,587 | 8.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.59 | $18,130 | $33,596 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.54 | $21,321 | $40,751 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.49 | $24,367 | $48,050 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.43 | $27,268 | $55,494 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.38 | $30,023 | $63,084 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.33 | $32,634 | $70,818 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good 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 (coming 2022)
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 Macon, MO Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Macon?
The average cost of solar panels in Macon is about $12,950 for a 5-kW system and $25,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Macon?
A solar panel system isn'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 can help lower the cost.
Does Macon have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can 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.
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 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.