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.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Clayton is 4 per watt.Since a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Clayton, the average price of going solar will be about $17,166 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you want to go with.Despite the high upfront cost, the average Clayton homeowner can save about $18,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, 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 yourself, it takes extra labor and handiness. That's why most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren’t sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you may need, 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 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 Clayton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clayton
For many Clayton homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Clayton, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few 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 notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production 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 $3,510.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Clayton to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest.It’s a good idea to add 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
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panel system can impact your pricing. Clayton’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Clayton know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $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
The solar installer you choose will be a major factor in determining 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 several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: When looking through your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 Clayton, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clayton?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,550 for a 5-kW system and $35,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Clayton?
Most states have 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 energy 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 should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.