Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gretna, NE (2023 Update)
- Gretna Solar Installation Cost: $18,820
- 25-Year Savings: $20,669
- Payback Period: 11.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gretna
We go over average solar pricing in Gretna.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Gretna typically cost about 2.83. The average solar panel system size in Gretna is around 9.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $18,820 for a solar installation, or $26,913 before the 30% federal solar tax credit 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 depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Gretna can save about $16,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Gretna
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,240 |
| 3 years | $-14,081 |
| 5 years | $-10,922 |
| 7 years | $-7,763 |
| 9 years | $-4,604 |
| 11 years | $-1,445 |
| 13 years | $1,715 |
| 15 years | $4,874 |
| 17 years | $8,033 |
| 19 years | $11,192 |
| 21 years | $14,351 |
| 23 years | $17,510 |
| 25 years | $20,669 |
Top Solar Installers in Gretna
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for you.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Gretna
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gretna
There are many factors that can influence your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,830. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Gretna average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Gretna to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Gretna, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger 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 | $12,582 | 12.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $17,093 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $21,763 | 11.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $26,591 | 11.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $31,577 | 11.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $36,722 | 11.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $42,026 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $47,488 | 10.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it's important to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Gretna, NE Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Gretna?
The average cost of solar panels in Gretna is about $14,150 for a 5-kW system and $28,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Gretna?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Gretna?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
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 take a 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.