Solar Panel Cost Guide in York, SC (2023 Update)
- York Solar Installation Cost: $15,429
- 25-Year Savings: $23,911
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in York
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in York.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in York, the average cost of solar panels is 2.72 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in York, most homeowners require a 8.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $15,422, or $22,053 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true price you pay can go above or below the average in York depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. With average savings of about $18,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in York find investing in solar can pay off big.
To get a free quote from a vetted solar installer in York, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in York
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,298 |
| 3 years | $-15,036 |
| 5 years | $-14,773 |
| 7 years | $-14,511 |
| 9 years | $-14,249 |
| 11 years | $-13,987 |
| 13 years | $-13,724 |
| 15 years | $-13,462 |
| 17 years | $-13,200 |
| 19 years | $-12,938 |
| 21 years | $-12,675 |
| 23 years | $-12,413 |
| 25 years | $-12,151 |
Top Solar Installers in York
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons most people choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in York:
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 York
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in York
There are a number of factors that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in York, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,720 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in York have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout York, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher 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 | $2.83 | $11,881 | $17,247 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.77 | $15,537 | $23,301 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.72 | $19,040 | $29,507 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.67 | $22,391 | $35,865 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.61 | $25,590 | $42,376 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.56 | $28,636 | $49,039 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.50 | $31,530 | $55,854 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.45 | $34,272 | $62,822 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from previous customers.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
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 York, SC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in York?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,600 for a 5-kW system and $27,200 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in York?
You can't get solar panels for free in York. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location 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 $970.94 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally 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.