Solar Panel Cost Guide in Molalla, OR (2024 Update)
- Molalla Solar Installation Cost: $10,076
- 25-Year Savings: $14,805
- Payback Period: 11.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Molalla
Here’s how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Molalla.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Molalla is 4 per watt.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Molalla, most homeowners require a 4.1-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $10,076, or $14,409 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Molalla
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,671 |
| 3 years | $-5,862 |
| 5 years | $-3,053 |
| 7 years | $-244 |
| 9 years | $2,565 |
| 11 years | $5,374 |
| 13 years | $8,183 |
| 15 years | $10,992 |
| 17 years | $13,802 |
| 19 years | $16,611 |
| 21 years | $19,420 |
| 23 years | $22,229 |
| 25 years | $25,038 |
Top Solar Installers in Molalla
Installing solar panels on your own can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. 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 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 Molalla
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Molalla
There are a number of criteria that can determine your 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
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production require 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 $3,500.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to install 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 installers in Molalla offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.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 more than the original 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 consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Molalla is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Molalla know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $3.64 | $15,288 | $17,490 | 11.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.57 | $19,992 | $23,712 | 11.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.50 | $24,500 | $30,130 | 11.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.43 | $28,812 | $36,744 | 11.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.36 | $32,928 | $43,554 | 10.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.29 | $36,848 | $50,560 | 10.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.22 | $40,572 | $57,762 | 10.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.15 | $44,100 | $65,160 | 10.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Molalla, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Molalla, OR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Molalla?
The average cost of solar panels in Molalla is about $17,500 for a 5-kW system and $35,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the model 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 Molalla?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Molalla?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.