Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bristol, TN (2023 Update)
- Bristol Solar Installation Cost: $14,251
- 25-Year Savings: $18,472
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bristol
We go over average solar pricing in Bristol.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Bristol, the average cost of solar panels is 2.49 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Bristol is around 8.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,258 for a solar installation, or $20,389 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs may look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bristol
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,141 |
| 3 years | $-13,923 |
| 5 years | $-13,705 |
| 7 years | $-13,487 |
| 9 years | $-13,269 |
| 11 years | $-13,051 |
| 13 years | $-12,832 |
| 15 years | $-12,614 |
| 17 years | $-12,396 |
| 19 years | $-12,178 |
| 21 years | $-11,960 |
| 23 years | $-11,742 |
| 25 years | $-11,524 |
Top Solar Installers in Bristol
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Bristol
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bristol
Though the average cost of a solar system in Bristol is $14,258, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,490. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Bristol average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Bristol have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Bristol homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panel system can affect the cost. Bristol's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price 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 go with the company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is 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 | $2.59 | $10,876 | $13,138 | 11.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.54 | $14,223 | $17,796 | 11.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.49 | $17,430 | $22,593 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.44 | $20,498 | $27,530 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.39 | $23,426 | $32,606 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.34 | $26,215 | $37,822 | 10.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.29 | $28,864 | $43,178 | 10.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.24 | $31,374 | $48,672 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Bristol, TN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bristol?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,450 for a 5-kW system and $24,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Bristol, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.