Solar Panel Cost Guide in Windcrest, TX (2023 Update)
- Windcrest Solar Installation Cost: $14,110
- 25-Year Savings: $23,291
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Windcrest
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Windcrest.
In Windcrest, solar panels cost about 2.69 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 7.5-kW system would cost about $14,104 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Windcrest homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With typical savings of about $19,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Windcrest find installing solar panels can pay off big.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Windcrest, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Windcrest
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,985 |
| 3 years | $-13,736 |
| 5 years | $-13,487 |
| 7 years | $-13,237 |
| 9 years | $-12,988 |
| 11 years | $-12,739 |
| 13 years | $-12,489 |
| 15 years | $-12,240 |
| 17 years | $-11,991 |
| 19 years | $-11,741 |
| 21 years | $-11,492 |
| 23 years | $-11,242 |
| 25 years | $-10,993 |
Top Solar Installers in Windcrest
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it involves extra energy and handiness. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy use, but going with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
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 Windcrest
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Windcrest
For many Windcrest homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Windcrest, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important 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 electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,690 per kilowatt in Windcrest. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Windcrest have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs 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 go with to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Windcrest, 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 pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $18,197 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $24,564 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $31,082 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $37,750 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $44,569 | 9.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $51,539 | 8.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $58,659 | 8.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $65,930 | 8.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to 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 component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before deciding.
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 Windcrest, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Windcrest?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Windcrest?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to 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.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Windcrest, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Windcrest?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.