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.
In Sparta, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 8.1-kW system would cost about $20,300 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of going solar can vary based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Sparta that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
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
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Taking advantage of an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. 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:
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 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 solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Sparta average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Sparta offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Sparta, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Sparta are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 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
The company that does your solar panel 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 difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 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 actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Sparta?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Sparta. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and the efficiency of your system. 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, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.