Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kearney, NE (2023 Update)
- Kearney Solar Installation Cost: $18,145
- 25-Year Savings: $21,259
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Kearney
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Kearney.
In Kearney, solar panels cost about 2.83 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Kearney is around 9.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $18,146 for a solar installation, or $25,949 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Kearney depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar company in Kearney, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Kearney
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,806 |
| 3 years | $-14,127 |
| 5 years | $-11,449 |
| 7 years | $-8,770 |
| 9 years | $-6,092 |
| 11 years | $-3,413 |
| 13 years | $-735 |
| 15 years | $1,944 |
| 17 years | $4,623 |
| 19 years | $7,301 |
| 21 years | $9,980 |
| 23 years | $12,658 |
| 25 years | $15,337 |
Top Solar Installers in Kearney
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and knowledge. That's why most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for your family.
Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Kearney
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kearney
While the average cost of a solar system in Kearney is $18,146, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
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 pay about $2,830 per kilowatt in Kearney. The kind of 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Kearney average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Kearney offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Kearney, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $13,450 | 12.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $18,251 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $23,210 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $28,327 | 11.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $33,603 | 11.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $39,037 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $44,630 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $50,381 | 10.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
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 Kearney, NE Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Kearney?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,150 for a 5-kW system and $28,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay 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 less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Kearney?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Kearney?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates 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.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use 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.