Solar Panel Cost Guide in Louisville, TN (2025 Update)
- Louisville Solar Installation Cost: $20,227
- 25-Year Savings: $11,247
- Payback Period: 20.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Louisville
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Louisville.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Louisville it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 8.1-kW system would cost about $20,227 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Louisville homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installation company in Louisville, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Louisville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,708 |
| 3 years | $-15,669 |
| 5 years | $-12,631 |
| 7 years | $-9,592 |
| 9 years | $-6,554 |
| 11 years | $-3,515 |
| 13 years | $-477 |
| 15 years | $2,561 |
| 17 years | $5,600 |
| 19 years | $8,638 |
| 21 years | $11,677 |
| 23 years | $14,715 |
| 25 years | $17,754 |
Top Solar Installers in Louisville
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a difficult task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you’re not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Louisville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Louisville
Though the average cost of a solar system in Louisville is $20,227, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a 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, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $3,580. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for 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. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Louisville average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Louisville, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $3,181 | 20.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $4,643 | 20.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $6,305 | 20.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $8,167 | 19.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $10,230 | 19.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $12,493 | 18.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $14,957 | 18.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $17,621 | 18.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Louisville, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
EcoWatch's Louisville, TN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Louisville?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Louisville?
Solar panels aren’t free in Louisville, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
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 $627.29 per year.
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 amount of 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.