Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sparta, TN (2024 Update)
- Sparta Solar Installation Cost: $20,300
- 25-Year Savings: $13,951
- Payback Period: 18.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sparta
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Sparta.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Sparta it’s 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Sparta, most homeowners require a 8.1-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $20,300, or $29,029 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Sparta depending on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average Sparta homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Sparta, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sparta
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,677 |
| 3 years | $-15,431 |
| 5 years | $-12,185 |
| 7 years | $-8,939 |
| 9 years | $-5,693 |
| 11 years | $-2,447 |
| 13 years | $799 |
| 15 years | $4,045 |
| 17 years | $7,291 |
| 19 years | $10,537 |
| 21 years | $13,783 |
| 23 years | $17,029 |
| 25 years | $20,275 |
Top Solar Installers in Sparta
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and know-how. For that reason, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Sparta:
See all of the solar companies in Sparta
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sparta
There are a number of criteria that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $3,580. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will greatly influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to consider 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 for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Sparta to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to higher prices over time due to interest.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Sparta, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.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 access to 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 | $5,153 | 18.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $7,272 | 18.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $9,592 | 18.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $12,111 | 17.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $14,832 | 17.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $17,752 | 17.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $20,873 | 16.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $24,195 | 16.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
EcoWatch's Sparta, TN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sparta?
The average cost of solar panels in Sparta 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Sparta?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Sparta, 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 power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located 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 $693.03 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Sparta?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.