Solar Panel Cost Guide in Papillion, NE (2023 Update)
- Papillion Solar Installation Cost: $18,820
- 25-Year Savings: $21,579
- Payback Period: 11.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Papillion
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Papillion.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Papillion, the average cost of a solar system is 2.83 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Papillion, most homeowners require a 9.5-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $18,820, or $26,913 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Papillion depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Papillion can save about $16,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar panel company in Papillion for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Papillion
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,204 |
| 3 years | $-13,972 |
| 5 years | $-10,740 |
| 7 years | $-7,508 |
| 9 years | $-4,276 |
| 11 years | $-1,044 |
| 13 years | $2,188 |
| 15 years | $5,419 |
| 17 years | $8,651 |
| 19 years | $11,883 |
| 21 years | $15,115 |
| 23 years | $18,347 |
| 25 years | $21,579 |
Top Solar Installers in Papillion
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a challenging task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar company in Papillion, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Papillion
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Papillion
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Papillion: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
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 consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,830 per kilowatt in Papillion. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a solid option because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can affect your pricing. Papillion's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to greater 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 promotion can bring their pricing lower 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 | $13,157 | 12.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $17,859 | 11.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $22,720 | 11.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $27,740 | 11.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $32,918 | 11.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $38,254 | 10.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $43,749 | 10.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $49,403 | 10.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Papillion, NE Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Papillion?
The average cost of solar panels in Papillion 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 certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Papillion?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or secure 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.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $850.61 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much 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 account for 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.