Solar Panel Cost Guide in Diamondhead, MS (Mar 2023)
- Diamondhead Solar Installation Cost: $14,729
- 25-Year Savings: $27,815
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Diamondhead
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Diamondhead.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Diamondhead typically cost about 2.64. Using this figure, a typical 8.0-kW system would cost about $14,729 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Diamondhead depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Diamondhead see about $20,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Diamondhead
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,027 |
| 3 years | $-9,623 |
| 5 years | $-6,220 |
| 7 years | $-2,816 |
| 9 years | $587 |
| 11 years | $3,990 |
| 13 years | $7,394 |
| 15 years | $10,797 |
| 17 years | $14,201 |
| 19 years | $17,604 |
| 21 years | $21,008 |
| 23 years | $24,411 |
| 25 years | $27,815 |
Top Solar Installers in Diamondhead
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Diamondhead, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Diamondhead
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Diamondhead
There are several criteria that can determine your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Diamondhead, one of the most crucial 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 energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,640 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Diamondhead, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Diamondhead, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panels can influence the cost. Diamondhead's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Diamondhead 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 walking you through the whole process. 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 | $2.75 | $11,532 | $20,511 | 9.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.69 | $15,080 | $27,644 | 8.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.64 | $18,480 | $34,925 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.59 | $21,732 | $42,354 | 8.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.53 | $24,837 | $49,930 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.48 | $27,794 | $57,654 | 8.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.43 | $30,603 | $65,526 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.38 | $33,264 | $73,546 | 7.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Diamondhead, MS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Diamondhead?
The average cost of solar panels in Diamondhead is about $13,200 for a 5-kW system and $26,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Diamondhead?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Diamondhead?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.
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.