Solar Panel Cost Guide in Christiana, TN (2024 Update)
- Christiana Solar Installation Cost: $20,010
- 25-Year Savings: $6,235
- Payback Period: 24.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Christiana
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Christiana.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Christiana generally cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 8.0-kW system would cost about $20,010 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go above or below the average in Christiana depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.With average savings of about $10,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Christiana find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Christiana
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,494 |
| 3 years | $-15,461 |
| 5 years | $-12,428 |
| 7 years | $-9,395 |
| 9 years | $-6,362 |
| 11 years | $-3,329 |
| 13 years | $-296 |
| 15 years | $2,737 |
| 17 years | $5,770 |
| 19 years | $8,803 |
| 21 years | $11,836 |
| 23 years | $14,869 |
| 25 years | $17,902 |
Top Solar Installers in Christiana
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for you.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 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 Christiana
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Christiana
There are several factors that can play into your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,580 per kilowatt in Christiana.The brand of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Moreover, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Christiana homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s vital to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Christiana is the company you hire to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle 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 | $3.72 | $15,637 | $-495 | 25.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $-259 | 25.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $178 | 24.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $815 | 24.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $1,652 | 23.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $2,690 | 23.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $3,929 | 22.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $5,368 | 22.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Christiana, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you’d like to install plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the longevity of your solar panels, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 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 Christiana, TN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Christiana?
The average cost of solar panels in Christiana is about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Christiana have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 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.