Solar Panel Cost Guide in Galveston, TX (2023 Update)
- Galveston Solar Installation Cost: $13,520
- 25-Year Savings: $23,668
- Payback Period: 9.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Galveston
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Galveston.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Galveston, the average cost of solar panels is 2.69 per watt. The average Galveston homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,520 with the federal tax credit, or $19,334 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you may differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Galveston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,032 |
| 3 years | $-9,057 |
| 5 years | $-6,082 |
| 7 years | $-3,107 |
| 9 years | $-132 |
| 11 years | $2,843 |
| 13 years | $5,818 |
| 15 years | $8,793 |
| 17 years | $11,768 |
| 19 years | $14,743 |
| 21 years | $17,718 |
| 23 years | $20,693 |
| 25 years | $23,668 |
Top Solar Installers in Galveston
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are various 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
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 Galveston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Galveston
The cost of installing a solar system in Galveston can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Galveston, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always reduce 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 consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Galveston is the company you choose to install your PV 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. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $2.80 | $11,750 | $19,346 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $26,095 | 9.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $32,996 | 9.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $40,047 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $47,249 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $54,601 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $62,104 | 8.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $69,758 | 8.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly influences 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you go with.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar energy system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Galveston, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Galveston?
The average cost of solar panels in Galveston 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Galveston?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Galveston?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
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 are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to 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.