Solar Panel Cost Guide in Aquia Harbour, VA (2023 Update)

  • Aquia Harbour Solar Installation Cost: $15,207
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,593
  • Payback Period: 10.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Aquia Harbour

See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Aquia Harbour.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Aquia Harbour typically cost about 2.75. The average solar panel system size in Aquia Harbour is around 7.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,207 for a solar installation, or $21,746 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Aquia Harbour can save about $18,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Aquia Harbour

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-13,735
3 years $-10,791
5 years $-7,847
7 years $-4,903
9 years $-1,959
11 years $985
13 years $3,929
15 years $6,873
17 years $9,817
19 years $12,761
21 years $15,705
23 years $18,649
25 years $21,593

Top Solar Installers in Aquia Harbour

DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Aquia Harbour, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Aquia Harbour

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Aquia Harbour

There are many criteria that can affect your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need for your household, 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 around $2,750. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Aquia Harbour provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you select will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Companies that only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price 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 find a company that has 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 $2.86 $12,012 $15,931 10.7 years
8 kW $2.81 $15,708 $21,549 10.5 years
10 kW $2.75 $19,250 $27,321 10.3 years
12 kW $2.69 $22,638 $33,247 10.1 years
14 kW $2.64 $25,872 $39,327 9.9 years
16 kW $2.58 $28,952 $45,562 9.7 years
18 kW $2.53 $31,878 $51,950 9.5 years
20 kW $2.48 $34,650 $58,492 9.3 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. Since selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
  • Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Aquia Harbour, VA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Aquia Harbour?

The average cost of solar panels in Aquia Harbour is about $13,750 for a 5-kW system and $27,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type 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 Aquia Harbour?

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 property 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 will solar panels impact my property value?

Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Aquia Harbour is currently $357,300, so you could be looking at a value of about $14,649 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Aquia Harbour is a rewarding investment.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.

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.

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