Solar Panel Cost Guide in Trinity, NC (2023 Update)
- Trinity Solar Installation Cost: $12,286
- 25-Year Savings: $19,378
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Trinity
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Trinity.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Trinity, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.54 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.9-kW system would cost about $12,286 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Trinity homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $17,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Trinity
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,019 |
| 3 years | $-8,486 |
| 5 years | $-5,953 |
| 7 years | $-3,420 |
| 9 years | $-887 |
| 11 years | $1,646 |
| 13 years | $4,179 |
| 15 years | $6,712 |
| 17 years | $9,245 |
| 19 years | $11,778 |
| 21 years | $14,312 |
| 23 years | $16,845 |
| 25 years | $19,378 |
Top Solar Installers in Trinity
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also offer access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your home.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Trinity:
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 Trinity
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Trinity
The cost of installing a solar system in Trinity can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production require 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 $2,540. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Trinity, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's a good idea to include 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 back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Trinity, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and choose a company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $16,392 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $22,141 | 9.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $28,031 | 9.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $34,064 | 9.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $40,239 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $46,557 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $53,017 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $59,619 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Trinity, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- 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 or replacing your electrical system or roof.
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 Trinity, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Trinity?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,700 for a 5-kW system and $25,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Trinity?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.