Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ashland, NE (Mar 2023)
- Ashland Solar Installation Cost: $18,740
- 25-Year Savings: $19,165
- Payback Period: 12.4 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ashland
We break down average solar pricing in Ashland.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Ashland generally cost about 2.83. Using this figure, a typical 9.5-kW system would cost about $18,740 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $15,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installation company in Ashland, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ashland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,224 |
| 3 years | $-14,192 |
| 5 years | $-11,159 |
| 7 years | $-8,127 |
| 9 years | $-5,094 |
| 11 years | $-2,062 |
| 13 years | $970 |
| 15 years | $4,003 |
| 17 years | $7,035 |
| 19 years | $10,068 |
| 21 years | $13,100 |
| 23 years | $16,133 |
| 25 years | $19,165 |
Top Solar Installers in Ashland
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and handiness. That's why most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Ashland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ashland
Although the average cost of a solar system in Ashland is $18,740, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better 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 $2,830. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Ashland homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have 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 lower 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 | $2.94 | $12,361 | $11,676 | 12.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $15,885 | 12.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $20,253 | 12.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $24,779 | 12.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $29,463 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $34,306 | 11.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $39,307 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $44,467 | 11.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from previous customers.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Ashland, NE Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ashland?
The average cost of solar panels in Ashland is about $14,150 for a 5-kW system and $28,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Ashland?
You can't get solar panels for free in Ashland. 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 rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Ashland?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.