Solar Panel Cost Guide in Waynesboro, MS (2023 Update)
- Waynesboro Solar Installation Cost: $15,154
- 25-Year Savings: $29,337
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Waynesboro
We go over average solar pricing in Waynesboro.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Waynesboro it's 2.64 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 8.2-kW system would cost about $15,154 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Waynesboro
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,374 |
| 3 years | $-9,815 |
| 5 years | $-6,256 |
| 7 years | $-2,696 |
| 9 years | $863 |
| 11 years | $4,422 |
| 13 years | $7,981 |
| 15 years | $11,541 |
| 17 years | $15,100 |
| 19 years | $18,659 |
| 21 years | $22,218 |
| 23 years | $25,777 |
| 25 years | $29,337 |
Top Solar Installers in Waynesboro
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Plus, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Waynesboro
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Waynesboro
There are several factors that can play into your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,640. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Waynesboro average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Waynesboro homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Waynesboro homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panels can influence the cost. Waynesboro's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $2.75 | $11,532 | $21,016 | 8.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.69 | $15,080 | $28,317 | 8.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.64 | $18,480 | $35,765 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.59 | $21,732 | $43,362 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.53 | $24,837 | $51,107 | 8.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.48 | $27,794 | $58,999 | 8.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.43 | $30,603 | $67,039 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.38 | $33,264 | $75,227 | 7.7 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 brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Waynesboro, MS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Waynesboro?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,200 for a 5-kW system and $26,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Waynesboro?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Do solar panels increase your home value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 get 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.