Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clayton, NC (2024 Update)
- Clayton Solar Installation Cost: $17,166
- 25-Year Savings: $21,504
- Payback Period: 12.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clayton
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Clayton.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Clayton generally cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $17,166 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you may look different based on your specific situation and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Clayton, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Clayton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,695 |
| 3 years | $-12,752 |
| 5 years | $-9,810 |
| 7 years | $-6,868 |
| 9 years | $-3,926 |
| 11 years | $-984 |
| 13 years | $1,959 |
| 15 years | $4,901 |
| 17 years | $7,843 |
| 19 years | $10,785 |
| 21 years | $13,727 |
| 23 years | $16,670 |
| 25 years | $19,612 |
Top Solar Installers in Clayton
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and handiness. That's why most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren’t sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Clayton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clayton
The cost of installing a solar system in Clayton can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Clayton, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,510 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Clayton, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Clayton homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panels can affect your pricing. Clayton’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of access to more resources and better 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 promotion can bring their pricing lower 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 | $3.65 | $15,332 | $13,804 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.58 | $20,049 | $18,798 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.51 | $24,570 | $23,989 | 12.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.44 | $28,894 | $29,377 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.37 | $33,022 | $34,961 | 12.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.30 | $36,953 | $40,741 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.23 | $40,688 | $46,719 | 11.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.16 | $44,226 | $52,892 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Clayton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which company you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through 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.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company with regard to 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.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Clayton, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clayton?
The average cost of solar panels in Clayton 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Clayton have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Clayton?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.