Solar Panel Cost Guide in Beaufort, NC (2023 Update)
- Beaufort Solar Installation Cost: $11,166
- 25-Year Savings: $20,393
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Beaufort
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Beaufort.
The average cost of solar panels in Beaufort is 2.54 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Beaufort is around 6.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,166 for a solar installation, or $15,967 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Beaufort homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Beaufort, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Beaufort
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,904 |
| 3 years | $-7,379 |
| 5 years | $-4,854 |
| 7 years | $-2,329 |
| 9 years | $195 |
| 11 years | $2,720 |
| 13 years | $5,245 |
| 15 years | $7,769 |
| 17 years | $10,294 |
| 19 years | $12,819 |
| 21 years | $15,343 |
| 23 years | $17,868 |
| 25 years | $20,393 |
Top Solar Installers in Beaufort
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and know-how. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Beaufort
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Beaufort
Although the average cost of a solar system in Beaufort is $11,166, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, 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 $2,540. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Beaufort to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Beaufort is the company you get to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional 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 | $2.64 | $11,095 | $19,072 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $25,713 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $32,497 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $39,423 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $46,492 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $53,702 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $61,055 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $68,550 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will impact 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 take into account, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business 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 adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
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 Beaufort, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Beaufort?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,700 for a 5-kW system and $25,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.