Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rockingham, NC (2024 Update)
- Rockingham Solar Installation Cost: $16,785
- 25-Year Savings: $20,992
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rockingham
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Rockingham.
In Rockingham, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average Rockingham homeowner needs a 6.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,785 with the federal tax credit, or $24,003 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Rockingham homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Rockingham can save around $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installer in Rockingham, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Rockingham
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,314 |
| 3 years | $-12,371 |
| 5 years | $-9,429 |
| 7 years | $-6,487 |
| 9 years | $-3,545 |
| 11 years | $-603 |
| 13 years | $2,339 |
| 15 years | $5,282 |
| 17 years | $8,224 |
| 19 years | $11,166 |
| 21 years | $14,108 |
| 23 years | $17,050 |
| 25 years | $19,993 |
Top Solar Installers in Rockingham
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra time and know-how. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Rockingham, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Rockingham
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rockingham
There are a number of factors that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,510.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Rockingham provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.It’s a good idea to factor 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 back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Rockingham, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size sometimes plays the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $13,773 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.58 | $20,049 | $18,758 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.51 | $24,570 | $23,939 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.44 | $28,894 | $29,316 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.37 | $33,022 | $34,890 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.30 | $36,953 | $40,661 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.23 | $40,688 | $46,628 | 11.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.16 | $44,226 | $52,791 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
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 Rockingham, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Rockingham?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay 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 cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Rockingham?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Rockingham. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How will installing solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase your property’s value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."
How long do solar panels last in Rockingham?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having 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.