Solar Panel Cost Guide in Baytown, TX (2023 Update)
- Baytown Solar Installation Cost: $14,160
- 25-Year Savings: $21,159
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Baytown
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Baytown.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Baytown generally cost around 2.69. The average solar panel system size in Baytown is around 7.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,160 for a solar installation, or $20,249 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs may vary based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Baytown can save about $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installation company in Baytown, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Baytown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,747 |
| 3 years | $-9,922 |
| 5 years | $-7,096 |
| 7 years | $-4,271 |
| 9 years | $-1,445 |
| 11 years | $1,380 |
| 13 years | $4,206 |
| 15 years | $7,032 |
| 17 years | $9,857 |
| 19 years | $12,683 |
| 21 years | $15,508 |
| 23 years | $18,334 |
| 25 years | $21,159 |
Top Solar Installers in Baytown
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it involves extra time and expertise. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Baytown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Baytown
There are several factors that can influence your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant 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 uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,690 per kilowatt in Baytown. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Baytown, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Baytown, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Baytown is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, 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 | $2.80 | $11,750 | $16,415 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $22,189 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $28,112 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $34,187 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $40,412 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $46,787 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $53,314 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $59,990 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Baytown, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy 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.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Baytown, TX Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Baytown?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Baytown?
Solar panels aren't free in Baytown, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, 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 Baytown have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 home 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.