Solar Panel Cost Guide in Livingston, TX (2024 Update)
- Livingston Solar Installation Cost: $17,899
- 25-Year Savings: $24,559
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Livingston
We go over average solar pricing in Livingston.
In Livingston, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.The average Livingston homeowner needs a 7.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,899 with the federal tax credit, or $25,596 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Livingston homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With typical savings of about $19,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Livingston find going solar can pay off big.
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 Livingston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,600 |
| 3 years | $-14,003 |
| 5 years | $-11,406 |
| 7 years | $-8,809 |
| 9 years | $-6,211 |
| 11 years | $-3,614 |
| 13 years | $-1,017 |
| 15 years | $1,580 |
| 17 years | $4,177 |
| 19 years | $6,774 |
| 21 years | $9,371 |
| 23 years | $11,968 |
| 25 years | $14,566 |
Top Solar Installers in Livingston
Many homeowners decide to use a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be challenging. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Livingston:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Livingston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Livingston
Although the average cost of a solar system in Livingston is $17,899, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher 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
Most solar companies in Livingston offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Livingston, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $3.46 | $14,545 | $15,943 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $21,630 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $27,504 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $33,564 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $39,811 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $46,244 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $52,863 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $59,670 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the longevity of your solar energy system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity 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.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Livingston, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Livingston?
The average cost of solar panels in Livingston is about $16,650 for a 5-kW system and $33,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Livingston?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Livingston. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Livingston?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Livingston?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of 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.