Solar Panel Cost Guide in Southern Shops, SC (2023 Update)
- Southern Shops Solar Installation Cost: $15,384
- 25-Year Savings: $28,441
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Southern Shops
We break down average solar pricing in Southern Shops.
In Southern Shops, solar panels cost about 2.72 per watt on average. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Southern Shops, most homeowners require a 8.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $15,384, or $21,999 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will look different based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with. Even with the high initial cost, the average Southern Shops homeowner can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Southern Shops
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,631 |
| 3 years | $-10,125 |
| 5 years | $-6,619 |
| 7 years | $-3,113 |
| 9 years | $393 |
| 11 years | $3,899 |
| 13 years | $7,405 |
| 15 years | $10,911 |
| 17 years | $14,417 |
| 19 years | $17,923 |
| 21 years | $21,429 |
| 23 years | $24,935 |
| 25 years | $28,441 |
Top Solar Installers in Southern Shops
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and handiness. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Southern Shops
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Southern Shops
For many Southern Shops homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Southern Shops, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,720. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Southern Shops, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Southern Shops offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Southern Shops is the company you hire to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with 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 | $20,666 | 9.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.77 | $15,537 | $27,860 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.72 | $19,040 | $35,205 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.67 | $22,391 | $42,704 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.61 | $25,590 | $50,354 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.56 | $28,636 | $58,157 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.50 | $31,530 | $66,112 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.45 | $34,272 | $74,219 | 7.9 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 find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Southern Shops, SC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Southern Shops?
The average cost of solar panels in Southern Shops is about $13,600 for a 5-kW system and $27,200 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Southern Shops?
A solar panel system isn't free in Southern Shops, 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.
Is it worth going solar in Southern Shops?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.