Solar Panel Cost Guide in West Jefferson, OH (2023 Update)
- West Jefferson Solar Installation Cost: $13,368
- 25-Year Savings: $14,989
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in West Jefferson
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in West Jefferson.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in West Jefferson it's 2.56 per watt. The average West Jefferson homeowner needs a 7.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,368 with the federal tax credit, or $19,116 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in West Jefferson depending on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average West Jefferson homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in West Jefferson for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in West Jefferson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,234 |
| 3 years | $-9,965 |
| 5 years | $-7,697 |
| 7 years | $-5,428 |
| 9 years | $-3,160 |
| 11 years | $-891 |
| 13 years | $1,378 |
| 15 years | $3,646 |
| 17 years | $5,915 |
| 19 years | $8,183 |
| 21 years | $10,452 |
| 23 years | $12,721 |
| 25 years | $14,989 |
Top Solar Installers in West Jefferson
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra time and expertise. That's why the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies offer can be valuable as well, particularly if you aren't sure what type of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 West Jefferson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in West Jefferson
There are many criteria that can affect your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines 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 energy needs. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in West Jefferson offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. 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 installer you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout West Jefferson, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in West Jefferson have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $2.66 | $11,182 | $11,636 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.61 | $14,623 | $15,802 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $20,111 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.51 | $21,074 | $24,563 | 11.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.46 | $24,084 | $29,158 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.41 | $26,952 | $33,897 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.36 | $29,676 | $38,780 | 10.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.30 | $32,256 | $43,805 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in West Jefferson, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high 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.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's West Jefferson, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in West Jefferson?
The average cost of solar panels in West Jefferson is about $12,800 for a 5-kW system and $25,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in West Jefferson?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home 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 West Jefferson?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in West Jefferson?
On average, solar panels can last 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 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.