Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ogallala, NE (2024 Update)
- Ogallala Solar Installation Cost: $22,203
- 25-Year Savings: $27,416
- Payback Period: 12.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ogallala
Here’s how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Ogallala.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Ogallala, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 8.9-kW system would cost about $22,203 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Ogallala homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Ogallala can save around $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in Ogallala for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Ogallala
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,750 |
| 3 years | $-17,845 |
| 5 years | $-14,940 |
| 7 years | $-12,034 |
| 9 years | $-9,129 |
| 11 years | $-6,224 |
| 13 years | $-3,319 |
| 15 years | $-413 |
| 17 years | $2,492 |
| 19 years | $5,397 |
| 21 years | $8,302 |
| 23 years | $11,207 |
| 25 years | $14,113 |
Top Solar Installers in Ogallala
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra effort and know-how. That's why almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Ogallala
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ogallala
There are many factors that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The type of 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 energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Ogallala average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Ogallala, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Ogallala is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Ogallala know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.72 | $15,637 | $14,815 | 12.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $20,154 | 12.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $25,694 | 12.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $31,434 | 12.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $37,375 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $43,516 | 11.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $49,858 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $56,400 | 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 brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Ogallala, NE Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ogallala?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Ogallala?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Ogallala, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Do solar panels increase your property value?
Solar panels can increase your home value considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of 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 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.