Solar Panel Cost Guide in James City, NC (Mar 2023)
- James City Solar Installation Cost: $12,144
- 25-Year Savings: $20,026
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in James City
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in James City.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in James City, the average cost of solar panels is 2.54 per watt. The average solar panel system size in James City is around 6.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,144 for a solar installation, or $17,366 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. With average savings of about $18,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in James City find installing solar panels can pay off big.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in James City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,857 |
| 3 years | $-8,283 |
| 5 years | $-5,710 |
| 7 years | $-3,136 |
| 9 years | $-563 |
| 11 years | $2,011 |
| 13 years | $4,585 |
| 15 years | $7,158 |
| 17 years | $9,732 |
| 19 years | $12,305 |
| 21 years | $14,879 |
| 23 years | $17,452 |
| 25 years | $20,026 |
Top Solar Installers in James City
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a dangerous task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but working with a solar installer can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 James City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in James City
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in James City: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like James City, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in James City to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest. Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for James City homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in James City, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $17,165 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $23,171 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $29,320 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $35,611 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $42,044 | 9.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $48,619 | 8.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $55,336 | 8.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $62,196 | 8.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good 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.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's James City, NC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in James City?
The average cost of solar panels in James City is about $12,700 for a 5-kW system and $25,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial 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 be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $942.00 per year.
How long do solar panels last in James City?
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 higher level 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.