Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tega Cay, SC (2024 Update)
- Tega Cay Solar Installation Cost: $19,570
- 25-Year Savings: $23,911
- Payback Period: 12.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tega Cay
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Tega Cay.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Tega Cay, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 8.1-kW system would cost about $19,570 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.With typical savings of about $18,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Tega Cay find installing solar panels can pay off big.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tega Cay
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,085 |
| 3 years | $-15,114 |
| 5 years | $-12,144 |
| 7 years | $-9,173 |
| 9 years | $-6,203 |
| 11 years | $-3,232 |
| 13 years | $-261 |
| 15 years | $2,709 |
| 17 years | $5,680 |
| 19 years | $8,650 |
| 21 years | $11,621 |
| 23 years | $14,591 |
| 25 years | $17,562 |
Top Solar Installers in Tega Cay
When going solar, many homeowners opt to go with a solar installer since handling can be a challenging project. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company too, which can save you more money over time.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Tega Cay, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 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 Tega Cay
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tega Cay
While the average cost of a solar system in Tega Cay is $19,570, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Tega Cay, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,450 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Tega Cay, 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 installers in Tega Cay offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you pick will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.59 | $15,070 | $14,059 | 12.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.52 | $19,706 | $19,131 | 12.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.45 | $24,150 | $24,397 | 12.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.38 | $28,400 | $29,856 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.31 | $32,458 | $35,508 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.24 | $36,322 | $41,354 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.17 | $39,992 | $47,392 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.11 | $43,470 | $53,624 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 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 Tega Cay, SC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Tega Cay?
The average cost of solar panels in Tega Cay is about $17,250 for a 5-kW system and $34,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like 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 Tega Cay?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Tega Cay, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Is it worth going solar in Tega Cay?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though 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 decide to 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.