Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lago Vista, TX (2023 Update)
- Lago Vista Solar Installation Cost: $14,233
- 25-Year Savings: $21,903
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lago Vista
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Lago Vista.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Lago Vista, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.69 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Lago Vista is around 7.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $14,235 for a solar installation, or $20,356 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Lago Vista
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,847 |
| 3 years | $-10,075 |
| 5 years | $-7,302 |
| 7 years | $-4,530 |
| 9 years | $-1,758 |
| 11 years | $1,014 |
| 13 years | $3,786 |
| 15 years | $6,559 |
| 17 years | $9,331 |
| 19 years | $12,103 |
| 21 years | $14,875 |
| 23 years | $17,648 |
| 25 years | $20,420 |
Top Solar Installers in Lago Vista
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
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 Lago Vista
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lago Vista
The cost of installing a solar system in Lago Vista can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,690 per kilowatt in Lago Vista. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Lago Vista, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Lago Vista 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 put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. 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 choose a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 | $16,934 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $22,880 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $28,977 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $35,224 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $41,622 | 9.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $48,171 | 9.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $54,870 | 9.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $61,720 | 8.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Lago Vista, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask for clarification 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.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Lago Vista, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lago Vista?
This is a difficult 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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Lago Vista?
You can't get solar panels for free in Lago Vista. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Lago Vista?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.