Solar Panel Cost Guide in Brady, TX (2023 Update)
- Brady Solar Installation Cost: $13,614
- 25-Year Savings: $25,313
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Brady
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Brady.
In Brady, solar panels cost about 2.69 per watt on average. Since a 7.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Brady, the average price of going solar will be about $13,614 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Brady homeowner. The price 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. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $20,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Brady
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,057 |
| 3 years | $-8,943 |
| 5 years | $-5,829 |
| 7 years | $-2,714 |
| 9 years | $400 |
| 11 years | $3,514 |
| 13 years | $6,628 |
| 15 years | $9,742 |
| 17 years | $12,856 |
| 19 years | $15,971 |
| 21 years | $19,085 |
| 23 years | $22,199 |
| 25 years | $25,313 |
Top Solar Installers in Brady
When going solar, many homeowners opt to use a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar company in Brady, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Brady
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Brady
Although the average cost of a solar system in Brady is $13,614, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Brady, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,690 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Brady, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Brady homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Brady is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $20,544 | 9.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $27,693 | 8.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $34,993 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $42,443 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $50,044 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $57,796 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $65,698 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $73,751 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good 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.
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 Brady, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Brady?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Brady?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Does Brady have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.
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.