Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ogallala, NE (2023 Update)
- Ogallala Solar Installation Cost: $17,551
- 25-Year Savings: $27,416
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ogallala
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Ogallala.
The average cost of a solar system in Ogallala is 2.83 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Ogallala is around 8.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,552 for a solar installation, or $25,099 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 panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ogallala
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,099 |
| 3 years | $-13,193 |
| 5 years | $-10,288 |
| 7 years | $-7,383 |
| 9 years | $-4,478 |
| 11 years | $-1,572 |
| 13 years | $1,333 |
| 15 years | $4,238 |
| 17 years | $7,143 |
| 19 years | $10,048 |
| 21 years | $12,954 |
| 23 years | $15,859 |
| 25 years | $18,764 |
Top Solar Installers in Ogallala
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Plus, if you're not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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
For many Ogallala homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Ogallala, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Ogallala average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Ogallala, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The company's size sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of access to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger 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 | $18,091 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $24,438 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $30,944 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $37,608 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $44,431 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $51,412 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $58,552 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $65,850 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- 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 plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid 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.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: When reading over your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ogallala?
The average cost of solar panels in Ogallala 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 such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Ogallala?
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 property 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Ogallala?
Each state has some kind 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 electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.