Solar Panel Cost Guide in Macon, MO (2024 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 generally 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.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Macon homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Macon homeowner can save around $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Macon, you can 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
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can take advantage of and by providing warranties and repairs.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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
For many Macon homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Macon, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Macon, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,370 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect 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 increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Macon is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you’ll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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?
This is a tough 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. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for 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 can further reduce the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Macon?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.