Solar Panel Cost Guide in Denver, PA (2023 Update)
- Denver Solar Installation Cost: $11,727
- 25-Year Savings: $13,227
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Denver
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Denver.
The average cost of solar panels in Denver is 2.55 per watt. The average Denver homeowner needs a 6.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,727 with the federal tax credit, or $16,770 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more. Despite the high upfront cost, the average Denver homeowner can save around $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Denver
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,729 |
| 3 years | $-8,733 |
| 5 years | $-6,737 |
| 7 years | $-4,740 |
| 9 years | $-2,744 |
| 11 years | $-748 |
| 13 years | $1,249 |
| 15 years | $3,245 |
| 17 years | $5,241 |
| 19 years | $7,238 |
| 21 years | $9,234 |
| 23 years | $11,230 |
| 25 years | $13,227 |
Top Solar Installers in Denver
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
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 Denver
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Denver
Though the average cost of a solar system in Denver is $11,727, your final cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation need 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 $2,550. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Denver average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid route 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 amount of 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 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
The final major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Denver, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Denver are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $11,643 | 12.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,810 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $20,120 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $24,572 | 11.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $29,167 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $33,905 | 11.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $38,786 | 10.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $43,810 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
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 Denver, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Denver?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $759.40 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.