Solar Panel Cost Guide in Southern Pines, NC (2024 Update)
- Southern Pines Solar Installation Cost: $16,975
- 25-Year Savings: $20,786
- Payback Period: 12.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Southern Pines
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Southern Pines.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Southern Pines, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Southern Pines is around 6.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,975 for a solar installation, or $24,274 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Southern Pines based on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Southern Pines can save about $18,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Southern Pines
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,504 |
| 3 years | $-12,561 |
| 5 years | $-9,619 |
| 7 years | $-6,677 |
| 9 years | $-3,735 |
| 11 years | $-793 |
| 13 years | $2,150 |
| 15 years | $5,092 |
| 17 years | $8,034 |
| 19 years | $10,976 |
| 21 years | $13,918 |
| 23 years | $16,861 |
| 25 years | $19,803 |
Top Solar Installers in Southern Pines
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Southern Pines
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Southern Pines
There are a number of factors that can play into 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 panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Southern Pines, 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 consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,510 for each additional kilowatt you need.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Southern Pines average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Southern Pines to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have greater 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 | $13,389 | 13.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.58 | $20,049 | $18,245 | 13.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.51 | $24,570 | $23,297 | 12.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.44 | $28,894 | $28,546 | 12.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.37 | $33,022 | $33,992 | 12.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.30 | $36,953 | $39,634 | 12.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.23 | $40,688 | $45,473 | 11.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.16 | $44,226 | $51,508 | 11.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
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 Southern Pines, NC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Southern Pines?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Southern Pines?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Southern Pines, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Southern Pines have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.