Solar Panel Cost Guide in Union, SC (2023 Update)
- Union Solar Installation Cost: $15,251
- 25-Year Savings: $31,491
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Union
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Union.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Union typically cost about 2.72. The average Union homeowner needs a 8.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $15,251 with the federal tax credit, or $21,809 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Union based on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Union
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,381 |
| 3 years | $-9,642 |
| 5 years | $-5,903 |
| 7 years | $-2,163 |
| 9 years | $1,576 |
| 11 years | $5,315 |
| 13 years | $9,055 |
| 15 years | $12,794 |
| 17 years | $16,533 |
| 19 years | $20,273 |
| 21 years | $24,012 |
| 23 years | $27,751 |
| 25 years | $31,491 |
Top Solar Installers in Union
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to go with a solar installer since installing a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Also, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, going with a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Union
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Union
The cost of installing a solar system in Union can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,720. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Union average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce 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 can only 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 APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Union, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and 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 access to 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 | $23,122 | 8.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.77 | $15,537 | $31,134 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.72 | $19,040 | $39,298 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.67 | $22,391 | $47,614 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.61 | $25,590 | $56,083 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.56 | $28,636 | $64,704 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.50 | $31,530 | $73,478 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.45 | $34,272 | $82,403 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- 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 large role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
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 Union, SC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Union?
The average cost of solar panels in Union is about $13,600 for a 5-kW system and $27,200 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,166.75 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 buy 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.