Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sweetwater, TX (Mar 2023)
- Sweetwater Solar Installation Cost: $13,445
- 25-Year Savings: $35,865
- Payback Period: 6.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sweetwater
We go over average solar pricing in Sweetwater.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sweetwater, the average cost of solar panels is 2.69 per watt. Because a 7.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Sweetwater, the average price of going solar will be about $13,445 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Sweetwater homeowner. The price 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. Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Sweetwater can save about $26,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sweetwater
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,472 |
| 3 years | $-7,527 |
| 5 years | $-3,583 |
| 7 years | $362 |
| 9 years | $4,307 |
| 11 years | $8,252 |
| 13 years | $12,196 |
| 15 years | $16,141 |
| 17 years | $20,086 |
| 19 years | $24,031 |
| 21 years | $27,975 |
| 23 years | $31,920 |
| 25 years | $35,865 |
Top Solar Installers in Sweetwater
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra energy and know-how. That's why most people choose a solar panel installer. 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.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Sweetwater
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sweetwater
For many Sweetwater homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Sweetwater, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,690. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Sweetwater, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panels can affect how much you pay. Sweetwater's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for 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 | $29,711 | 7.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $39,916 | 6.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $50,271 | 6.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $60,777 | 6.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $71,434 | 6.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $82,242 | 6.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $93,200 | 6.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $104,309 | 6.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type 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.
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 Sweetwater, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sweetwater?
The average cost of solar panels in Sweetwater 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 kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Sweetwater?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get 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 savings from going solar.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,382.03 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Sweetwater?
On average, solar panels can last 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 higher 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.