Solar Panel Cost Guide in Decatur, TX (Mar 2023)
- Decatur Solar Installation Cost: $14,273
- 25-Year Savings: $19,716
- Payback Period: 10.5 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated March 14, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Decatur
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Decatur.
The average cost of solar panels in Decatur is 2.69 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $14,273 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Even with the high initial cost, the average Decatur homeowner can save about $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Decatur that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Decatur
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,914 |
| 3 years | $-10,194 |
| 5 years | $-7,475 |
| 7 years | $-4,756 |
| 9 years | $-2,037 |
| 11 years | $682 |
| 13 years | $3,401 |
| 15 years | $6,120 |
| 17 years | $8,840 |
| 19 years | $11,559 |
| 21 years | $14,278 |
| 23 years | $16,997 |
| 25 years | $19,716 |
Top Solar Installers in Decatur
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren't sure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Decatur
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Decatur
There are a number of criteria that can affect your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Decatur, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,690 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Decatur provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Decatur, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Decatur know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $2.80 | $11,750 | $15,157 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $20,511 | 10.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $26,015 | 10.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $31,670 | 10.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $37,475 | 10.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $43,431 | 9.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $49,538 | 9.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $55,796 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model 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:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
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 Decatur, TX Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Decatur?
The average cost of solar panels in Decatur is about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Decatur?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 option if you want to maximize your savings.
Is it worth going solar in Decatur?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.