Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chadron, NE (2023 Update)
- Chadron Solar Installation Cost: $17,869
- 25-Year Savings: $30,074
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chadron
We go over average solar pricing in Chadron.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Chadron is 2.83 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Chadron, most homeowners require a 9.0-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $17,869, or $25,553 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely vary based on your energy needs and what company you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $20,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Chadron for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Chadron
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,647 |
| 3 years | $-14,203 |
| 5 years | $-11,759 |
| 7 years | $-9,314 |
| 9 years | $-6,870 |
| 11 years | $-4,426 |
| 13 years | $-1,982 |
| 15 years | $462 |
| 17 years | $2,906 |
| 19 years | $5,351 |
| 21 years | $7,795 |
| 23 years | $10,239 |
| 25 years | $12,683 |
Top Solar Installers in Chadron
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar installation company since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Chadron, therefore optimizing your ROI.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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
See all of the solar companies in Chadron
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chadron
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Chadron: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,830 per kilowatt in Chadron. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Chadron average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Chadron provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Chadron homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose will influence your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $19,529 | 9.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $26,355 | 9.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $33,341 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $40,484 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $47,786 | 8.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $55,247 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $62,866 | 8.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $70,643 | 8.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
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
EcoWatch's Chadron, NE Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chadron?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,150 for a 5-kW system and $28,300 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 needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Chadron?
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 offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much 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 get 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.