Solar Panel Cost Guide in Whiteville, NC (2023 Update)
- Whiteville Solar Installation Cost: $11,984
- 25-Year Savings: $21,405
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Whiteville
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Whiteville.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Whiteville generally cost about 2.54. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Whiteville, most homeowners require a 6.7-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $11,984, or $17,137 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Whiteville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,648 |
| 3 years | $-7,977 |
| 5 years | $-5,306 |
| 7 years | $-2,635 |
| 9 years | $36 |
| 11 years | $2,707 |
| 13 years | $5,379 |
| 15 years | $8,050 |
| 17 years | $10,721 |
| 19 years | $13,392 |
| 21 years | $16,063 |
| 23 years | $18,734 |
| 25 years | $21,405 |
Top Solar Installers in Whiteville
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a dangerous project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Whiteville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Whiteville
There are a number of criteria that can play into your 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
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,540 per kilowatt in Whiteville. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Whiteville, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Whiteville, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. 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 a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Whiteville, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Whiteville have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of 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 | $2.64 | $11,095 | $18,642 | 9.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.59 | $14,508 | $25,140 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.54 | $17,780 | $31,781 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.49 | $20,909 | $38,564 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.44 | $23,896 | $45,489 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.39 | $26,741 | $52,556 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.34 | $29,444 | $59,766 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,004 | $67,118 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Whiteville, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
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 Whiteville, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Whiteville?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial 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 trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Whiteville?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 account for 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.