Solar Panel Cost Guide in Denver, PA (2024 Update)
- Denver Solar Installation Cost: $16,331
- 25-Year Savings: $13,223
- Payback Period: 16.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Denver
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Denver.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Denver, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Since a 6.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Denver, the average price of going solar will be about $16,331 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Denver can save around $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Denver
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,089 |
| 3 years | $-12,603 |
| 5 years | $-10,117 |
| 7 years | $-7,631 |
| 9 years | $-5,145 |
| 11 years | $-2,659 |
| 13 years | $-173 |
| 15 years | $2,313 |
| 17 years | $4,799 |
| 19 years | $7,285 |
| 21 years | $9,771 |
| 23 years | $12,257 |
| 25 years | $14,743 |
Top Solar Installers in Denver
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, going with a solar company can help with that too. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Denver
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Denver
While the average cost of a solar system in Denver is $16,331, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Denver average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Denver, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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’re only able to 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 interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a part in determining how much it costs. Denver’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.69 | $15,506 | $7,275 | 17.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $10,098 | 16.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $13,120 | 16.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $16,340 | 16.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $19,759 | 15.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $23,377 | 15.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $27,194 | 15.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $31,210 | 14.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Denver, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Denver?
The average cost of solar panels in Denver is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 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 use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Denver?
Solar panels aren’t free in Denver, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Denver have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
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 cover 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.