Solar Panel Cost Guide in Glendive, MT (2024 Update)
- Glendive Solar Installation Cost: $42,249
- 25-Year Savings: $32,324
- Payback Period: 16.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Glendive
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Glendive.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Glendive it’s 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 17.4-kW system would cost about $42,249 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Glendive can save about $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Glendive for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Glendive
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-41,109 |
| 3 years | $-38,828 |
| 5 years | $-36,547 |
| 7 years | $-34,267 |
| 9 years | $-31,986 |
| 11 years | $-29,705 |
| 13 years | $-27,424 |
| 15 years | $-25,144 |
| 17 years | $-22,863 |
| 19 years | $-20,582 |
| 21 years | $-18,301 |
| 23 years | $-16,021 |
| 25 years | $-13,740 |
Top Solar Installers in Glendive
Putting up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also offer access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for your family.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Glendive, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 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 Glendive
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Glendive
For many Glendive homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Glendive, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,470.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
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 Glendive homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s important to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Glendive, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.61 | $15,157 | $6,661 | 17.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $9,270 | 17.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $12,074 | 16.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $15,071 | 16.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $18,263 | 16.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $21,649 | 15.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $25,230 | 15.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $29,005 | 15.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with will affect not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely 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.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 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 Glendive, MT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Glendive?
The average cost of solar panels in Glendive is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Glendive?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Glendive?
On average, solar panels can last 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 larger 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.