Solar Panel Cost Guide in Murfreesboro, TN (2024 Update)
- Murfreesboro Solar Installation Cost: $20,010
- 25-Year Savings: $1
- Payback Period: 43.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Murfreesboro
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Murfreesboro.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Murfreesboro it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Murfreesboro is around 8.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $20,010 for a solar installation, or $28,614 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.Even with the high upfront cost, the average Murfreesboro homeowner can save about $5,800 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installer in Murfreesboro, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Murfreesboro
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,087 |
| 3 years | $-17,239 |
| 5 years | $-15,392 |
| 7 years | $-13,545 |
| 9 years | $-11,697 |
| 11 years | $-9,850 |
| 13 years | $-8,003 |
| 15 years | $-6,155 |
| 17 years | $-4,308 |
| 19 years | $-2,461 |
| 21 years | $-614 |
| 23 years | $1,234 |
| 25 years | $3,081 |
Top Solar Installers in Murfreesboro
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies offer can be helpful as well, especially if you aren’t sure what kind of solar equipment you need.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 Murfreesboro
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Murfreesboro
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Murfreesboro: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,580.The type of 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, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Murfreesboro average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Murfreesboro homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Murfreesboro, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced 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 provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 | $3.72 | $15,637 | $-6,972 | 45.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $-8,895 | 44.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $-10,618 | 43.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $-12,140 | 42.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $-13,462 | 41.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $-14,583 | 40.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $-15,504 | 39.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $-16,224 | 39.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will affect not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before deciding.
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 Murfreesboro, TN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Murfreesboro?
The average cost of solar panels in Murfreesboro 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 stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Murfreesboro?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Murfreesboro?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Murfreesboro?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.