Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wilson, NC (2024 Update)

  • Wilson Solar Installation Cost: $17,239
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,686
  • Payback Period: 12.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wilson

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Wilson.

In Wilson, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Since a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Wilson, the average price of going solar will be about $17,239 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Wilson can save around $19,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

To get a free quote from a top solar company in Wilson, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Wilson

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-15,765
3 years$-12,818
5 years$-9,870
7 years$-6,922
9 years$-3,975
11 years$-1,027
13 years$1,920
15 years$4,868
17 years$7,815
19 years$10,763
21 years$13,711
23 years$16,658
25 years$19,606

Top Solar Installers in Wilson

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance in the long run.

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 in Wilson:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • 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

★★★★★
4.5
  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Outstanding Regional Installer

Renu Energy Solutions

★★★★★
4.5
  • Excellent reputation
  • Many financing options
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Wilson

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wilson

Though the average cost of a solar system in Wilson is $17,239, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $3,510. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Wilson, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Wilson homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can influence your pricing. Wilson’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Wilson are more knowledgeable 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 end up saving you more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.65$15,332$13,88113.1 years
8 kW$3.58$20,049$18,90112.9 years
10 kW$3.51$24,570$24,11812.6 years
12 kW$3.44$28,894$29,53212.4 years
14 kW$3.37$33,022$35,14112.1 years
16 kW$3.30$36,953$40,94811.9 years
18 kW$3.23$40,688$46,95111.6 years
20 kW$3.16$44,226$53,15011.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Wilson, 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:

  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power 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.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • 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

★★★★★
4.5
  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Outstanding Regional Installer

Renu Energy Solutions

★★★★★
4.5
  • Excellent reputation
  • Many financing options
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Wilson, NC Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Wilson?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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 above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Wilson?

Each state has some form 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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.

How long do solar panels last in Wilson?

Though 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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose 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.