Solar Panel Cost Guide in Vandalia, OH (2024 Update)
- Vandalia Solar Installation Cost: $17,915
- 25-Year Savings: $14,986
- Payback Period: 15.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Vandalia
We break down average solar pricing in Vandalia.
The average cost of solar panels in Vandalia is 3 per watt.The average Vandalia homeowner needs a 7.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,915 with the federal tax credit, or $25,618 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Vandalia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,897 |
| 3 years | $-14,860 |
| 5 years | $-12,823 |
| 7 years | $-10,787 |
| 9 years | $-8,750 |
| 11 years | $-6,714 |
| 13 years | $-4,677 |
| 15 years | $-2,640 |
| 17 years | $-604 |
| 19 years | $1,433 |
| 21 years | $3,469 |
| 23 years | $5,506 |
| 25 years | $7,543 |
Top Solar Installers in Vandalia
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra labor and know-how. For that reason, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Some solar companies, particularly local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Vandalia, therefore optimizing your ROI.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
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 Vandalia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Vandalia
For many Vandalia homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Vandalia, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,410.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Vandalia, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you 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 getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Vandalia is the company you hire to install your solar 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.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices 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 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 | $3.55 | $14,895 | $7,838 | 16.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $10,832 | 16.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $14,018 | 15.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $17,394 | 15.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $20,961 | 15.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $24,720 | 14.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $28,669 | 14.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $32,809 | 14.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will impact not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, including:
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
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 Vandalia, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Vandalia?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Vandalia have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility 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?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level 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.