Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stillwater, OK (2023 Update)
- Stillwater Solar Installation Cost: $15,681
- 25-Year Savings: $22,343
- Payback Period: 10.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stillwater
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Stillwater.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Stillwater, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.62 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 8.6-kW system would cost about $15,681 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Stillwater homeowners. The price 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. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Stillwater homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Stillwater
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,160 |
| 3 years | $-11,118 |
| 5 years | $-8,076 |
| 7 years | $-5,034 |
| 9 years | $-1,992 |
| 11 years | $1,050 |
| 13 years | $4,092 |
| 15 years | $7,134 |
| 17 years | $10,176 |
| 19 years | $13,218 |
| 21 years | $16,259 |
| 23 years | $19,301 |
| 25 years | $22,343 |
Top Solar Installers in Stillwater
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra energy and handiness. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Stillwater
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stillwater
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Stillwater is $15,681, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,620. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Stillwater is the company you hire to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs. Additionally, some companies in Stillwater know more 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 end up saving you 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 | $2.72 | $11,444 | $15,251 | 10.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.67 | $14,965 | $20,628 | 10.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.62 | $18,340 | $26,152 | 10.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.57 | $21,568 | $31,823 | 10.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.52 | $24,649 | $37,640 | 9.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.46 | $27,583 | $43,604 | 9.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.41 | $30,371 | $49,715 | 9.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.36 | $33,012 | $55,973 | 9.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Stillwater, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
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 Stillwater, OK Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Stillwater?
The average cost of solar panels in Stillwater is about $13,100 for a 5-kW system and $26,200 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual 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 use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Stillwater?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure 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.
Does Stillwater have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity 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 Stillwater?
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 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.