Solar Panel Cost Guide in Manchester, MO (2023 Update)

  • Manchester Solar Installation Cost: $13,108
  • 25-Year Savings: $18,723
  • Payback Period: 10.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated March 14, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Manchester

See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Manchester.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Manchester, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.59 per watt. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Manchester, most homeowners require a 7.2-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $13,108, or $18,744 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs may vary based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Manchester can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Manchester, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Manchester

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,835
3 years $-9,288
5 years $-6,742
7 years $-4,195
9 years $-1,649
11 years $898
13 years $3,444
15 years $5,990
17 years $8,537
19 years $11,083
21 years $13,630
23 years $16,176
25 years $18,723

Top Solar Installers in Manchester

Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.

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 National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Manchester

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Manchester

Though the average cost of a solar system in Manchester is $13,108, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Manchester, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,590 for each additional kilowatt you need. The model of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will substantially affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Furthermore, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Manchester to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can influence how much you pay. Manchester's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. 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 find a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fit into 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 $2.69 $11,313 $15,095 10.7 years
8 kW $2.64 $14,794 $20,417 10.5 years
10 kW $2.59 $18,130 $25,884 10.3 years
12 kW $2.54 $21,321 $31,496 10.1 years
14 kW $2.49 $24,367 $37,253 9.9 years
16 kW $2.43 $27,268 $43,155 9.7 years
18 kW $2.38 $30,023 $49,202 9.5 years
20 kW $2.33 $32,634 $55,394 9.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of 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:

  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power 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 what the project timeline is.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Manchester, MO Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Manchester?

The average cost of solar panels in Manchester 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 certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Does Manchester have a net metering program?

Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system generates 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 long do solar panels last in Manchester?

On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level 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.

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