Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dickson, TN (2025 Update)

  • Dickson Solar Installation Cost: $19,823
  • 25-Year Savings: $7,676
  • Payback Period: 23.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dickson

We go over average solar pricing in Dickson.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Dickson, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Since a 7.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Dickson, the average price of going solar will be about $19,823 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The actual price you pay can go above or below the average in Dickson based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average Dickson homeowners see about $11,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Dickson

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-18,382
3 years$-15,499
5 years$-12,617
7 years$-9,734
9 years$-6,851
11 years$-3,969
13 years$-1,086
15 years$1,796
17 years$4,679
19 years$7,561
21 years$10,444
23 years$13,327
25 years$16,209

Top Solar Installers in Dickson

Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra time and know-how. That's why most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Some solar installers, especially local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Dickson, therefore optimizing your ROI.

Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:

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See all of the solar companies in Dickson

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dickson

Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Dickson: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $3,580 per kilowatt in Dickson.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. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Dickson average.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Dickson to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Dickson homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you pick will impact your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Dickson have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.72$15,637$64224.0 years
8 kW$3.65$20,449$1,25823.6 years
10 kW$3.58$25,060$2,07323.1 years
12 kW$3.51$29,471$3,08922.6 years
14 kW$3.44$33,681$4,30622.2 years
16 kW$3.37$37,690$5,72321.7 years
18 kW$3.29$41,499$7,34021.2 years
20 kW$3.22$45,108$9,15820.8 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, 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:

  • Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid 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 that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from past customers.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
  • Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
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EcoWatch's Dickson, TN Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dickson?

This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Dickson?

Solar panels aren’t free in Dickson, 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 you can take advantage of.

Does Dickson have a net metering program?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.