Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dunean, SC (2023 Update)
- Dunean Solar Installation Cost: $15,374
- 25-Year Savings: $27,257
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dunean
We go over average solar pricing in Dunean.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Dunean, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.72 per watt. The average Dunean homeowner needs a 8.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $15,365 with the federal tax credit, or $21,972 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Dunean based on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Dunean homeowner can save about $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Dunean
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,889 |
| 3 years | $-10,918 |
| 5 years | $-7,948 |
| 7 years | $-4,977 |
| 9 years | $-2,007 |
| 11 years | $964 |
| 13 years | $3,934 |
| 15 years | $6,905 |
| 17 years | $9,876 |
| 19 years | $12,846 |
| 21 years | $15,817 |
| 23 years | $18,787 |
| 25 years | $21,758 |
Top Solar Installers in Dunean
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar installers offer can be useful as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Dunean
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dunean
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Dunean: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately gauge 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 increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for 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 electric bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Dunean average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Dunean homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you select will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. 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 | $2.83 | $11,881 | $19,797 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.77 | $15,537 | $26,701 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.72 | $19,040 | $33,756 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.67 | $22,391 | $40,965 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.61 | $25,590 | $48,325 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.56 | $28,636 | $55,838 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.50 | $31,530 | $63,503 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.45 | $34,272 | $71,321 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Dunean, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- 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
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Dunean, SC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dunean?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,600 for a 5-kW system and $27,200 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Dunean?
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 don't have access to 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Dunean?
Most states have 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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 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.