Solar Panel Cost Guide in Karnes City, TX (Mar 2023)
- Karnes City Solar Installation Cost: $13,991
- 25-Year Savings: $20,933
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Karnes City
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Karnes City.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Karnes City, the average cost of a solar system is 2.69 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Karnes City is around 7.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,991 for a solar installation, or $20,007 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $18,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Karnes City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,594 |
| 3 years | $-9,800 |
| 5 years | $-7,006 |
| 7 years | $-4,212 |
| 9 years | $-1,418 |
| 11 years | $1,376 |
| 13 years | $4,170 |
| 15 years | $6,964 |
| 17 years | $9,758 |
| 19 years | $12,552 |
| 21 years | $15,345 |
| 23 years | $18,139 |
| 25 years | $20,933 |
Top Solar Installers in Karnes City
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra energy and knowledge. That's why most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Karnes City, 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 (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 Karnes City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Karnes City
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Karnes City: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,690. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Karnes City, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Karnes City homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Karnes City, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $16,440 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $22,221 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $28,153 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $34,235 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $40,468 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $46,852 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $53,386 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $60,071 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with will impact not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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 Karnes City, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Karnes City?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Karnes City?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Karnes City?
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 give you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Karnes City?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount 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.