Solar Panel Cost Guide in West Hattiesburg, MS (2023 Update)
- West Hattiesburg Solar Installation Cost: $15,264
- 25-Year Savings: $30,647
- Payback Period: 8.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in West Hattiesburg
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in West Hattiesburg.
The average cost of solar panels in West Hattiesburg is 2.64 per watt. The average solar panel system size in West Hattiesburg is around 8.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,264 for a solar installation, or $21,828 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in West Hattiesburg for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in West Hattiesburg
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,428 |
| 3 years | $-9,755 |
| 5 years | $-6,082 |
| 7 years | $-2,409 |
| 9 years | $1,264 |
| 11 years | $4,937 |
| 13 years | $8,610 |
| 15 years | $12,283 |
| 17 years | $15,956 |
| 19 years | $19,628 |
| 21 years | $23,301 |
| 23 years | $26,974 |
| 25 years | $30,647 |
Top Solar Installers in West Hattiesburg
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra labor and know-how. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer 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 West Hattiesburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in West Hattiesburg
Although the average cost of a solar system in West Hattiesburg is $15,264, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,640. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like West Hattiesburg, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for West Hattiesburg homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. 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
The remaining key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in West Hattiesburg, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in West Hattiesburg are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 | $2.75 | $11,532 | $21,815 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.69 | $15,080 | $29,382 | 8.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.64 | $18,480 | $37,097 | 8.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.59 | $21,732 | $44,960 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.53 | $24,837 | $52,971 | 8.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.48 | $27,794 | $61,129 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.43 | $30,603 | $69,436 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.38 | $33,264 | $77,890 | 7.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in West Hattiesburg, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can verify your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you opt for.
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 West Hattiesburg, MS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in West Hattiesburg?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,200 for a 5-kW system and $26,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in West Hattiesburg?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in West Hattiesburg?
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 many solar panels should I get 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 account for 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.