Solar Panel Cost Guide in Offutt AFB, NE (2024 Update)

  • Offutt AFB Solar Installation Cost: $23,804
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,354
  • Payback Period: 14.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 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 Offutt AFB

Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Offutt AFB.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Offutt AFB it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Offutt AFB is around 9.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $23,804 for a solar installation, or $34,040 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To receive a free quote from a pre-vetted solar company in Offutt AFB, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Offutt AFB

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-22,554
3 years$-20,054
5 years$-17,555
7 years$-15,056
9 years$-12,556
11 years$-10,057
13 years$-7,558
15 years$-5,058
17 years$-2,559
19 years$-60
21 years$2,440
23 years$4,939
25 years$7,438

Top Solar Installers in Offutt AFB

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to use a solar company since installing solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. Some solar installers, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Offutt AFB, therefore optimizing your ROI.

You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Offutt AFB

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Offutt AFB

The cost of installing a solar system in Offutt AFB can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,580. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Offutt AFB provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installation company you choose will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Offutt AFB have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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$3.72$15,637$9,73715.4 years
8 kW$3.65$20,449$13,38415.1 years
10 kW$3.58$25,060$17,23114.8 years
12 kW$3.51$29,471$21,27914.5 years
14 kW$3.44$33,681$25,52714.2 years
16 kW$3.37$37,690$29,97513.9 years
18 kW$3.29$41,499$34,62413.6 years
20 kW$3.22$45,108$39,47413.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Offutt AFB, NE Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Offutt AFB?

The average cost of solar panels in Offutt AFB is about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?

Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Does Offutt AFB have a net metering program?

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 offer you credit toward your future power bills.

How long do solar panels last in Offutt AFB?

On average, solar panels can last 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 higher amount 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.