Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wichita Falls, TX (2023 Update)
- Wichita Falls Solar Installation Cost: $14,012
- 25-Year Savings: $23,176
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wichita Falls
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Wichita Falls.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Wichita Falls generally cost around 2.69. The average Wichita Falls homeowner needs a 7.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,010 with the federal tax credit, or $20,034 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Wichita Falls based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Wichita Falls homeowners see about $20,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Wichita Falls for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Wichita Falls
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,888 |
| 3 years | $-13,640 |
| 5 years | $-13,392 |
| 7 years | $-13,144 |
| 9 years | $-12,896 |
| 11 years | $-12,648 |
| 13 years | $-12,400 |
| 15 years | $-12,152 |
| 17 years | $-11,904 |
| 19 years | $-11,656 |
| 21 years | $-11,408 |
| 23 years | $-11,161 |
| 25 years | $-10,913 |
Top Solar Installers in Wichita Falls
When going solar, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installer since putting up a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional 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
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 Wichita Falls
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wichita Falls
While the average cost of a solar system in Wichita Falls is $14,010, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. 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 consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Wichita Falls, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,690 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Wichita Falls, 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Wichita Falls, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Wichita Falls homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Wichita Falls, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk 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 | $18,236 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $24,615 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $31,146 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $37,827 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $44,659 | 9.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $51,641 | 8.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $58,774 | 8.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $66,058 | 8.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Wichita Falls, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from previous customers.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
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 Wichita Falls, TX Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Wichita Falls?
The average cost of solar panels in Wichita Falls 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Wichita Falls?
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 can't take advantage of 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Does Wichita Falls have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.