Solar Panel Cost Guide in Archer Lodge, NC (2024 Update)
- Archer Lodge Solar Installation Cost: $17,148
- 25-Year Savings: $21,608
- Payback Period: 12.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Archer Lodge
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Archer Lodge.
The average cost of a solar system in Archer Lodge is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Archer Lodge is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,148 for a solar installation, or $24,522 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Archer Lodge homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the high initial cost, the average Archer Lodge homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Archer Lodge that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Archer Lodge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,677 |
| 3 years | $-12,735 |
| 5 years | $-9,793 |
| 7 years | $-6,851 |
| 9 years | $-3,908 |
| 11 years | $-966 |
| 13 years | $1,976 |
| 15 years | $4,918 |
| 17 years | $7,860 |
| 19 years | $10,803 |
| 21 years | $13,745 |
| 23 years | $16,687 |
| 25 years | $19,629 |
Top Solar Installers in Archer Lodge
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and know-how. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another benefit of going with a solar installer is that they can help you make the most of your return of investment by bringing down your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and helping you learn about local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Archer Lodge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Archer Lodge
For many Archer Lodge homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Archer Lodge, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Archer Lodge, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Archer Lodge homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going 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’re only able to 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 APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Archer Lodge, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle 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 | $3.65 | $15,332 | $13,912 | 13.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.58 | $20,049 | $18,943 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.51 | $24,570 | $24,170 | 12.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.44 | $28,894 | $29,593 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.37 | $33,022 | $35,214 | 12.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.30 | $36,953 | $41,030 | 11.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.23 | $40,688 | $47,044 | 11.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.16 | $44,226 | $53,254 | 11.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you’d like to get plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- 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 unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Archer Lodge, NC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Archer Lodge?
The average cost of solar panels in Archer Lodge is about $17,550 for a 5-kW system and $35,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Archer Lodge?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it often 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 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 solar panels completely eradicate my energy bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Archer Lodge, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
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 the average daily 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 install 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.