Solar Panel Cost Guide in Karnes City, TX (2023 Update)
- Karnes City Solar Installation Cost: $13,997
- 25-Year Savings: $20,927
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Karnes City
We go over average solar pricing in Karnes City.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Karnes City generally cost around 2.69. Using this figure, a typical 7.4-kW system would cost about $13,991 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Karnes City based on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Karnes City see about $18,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Karnes City for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Karnes City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,721 |
| 3 years | $-10,168 |
| 5 years | $-7,615 |
| 7 years | $-5,062 |
| 9 years | $-2,509 |
| 11 years | $43 |
| 13 years | $2,596 |
| 15 years | $5,149 |
| 17 years | $7,702 |
| 19 years | $10,255 |
| 21 years | $12,807 |
| 23 years | $15,360 |
| 25 years | $17,913 |
Top Solar Installers in Karnes City
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Karnes City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Karnes City
The cost of installing a solar system in Karnes City 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
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,690. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Karnes City average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Karnes City, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Karnes City homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can influence your pricing. Karnes City's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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
There are numerous companies available in Karnes City, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability 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.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
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 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.