Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cascades, VA (2024 Update)
- Cascades Solar Installation Cost: $20,419
- 25-Year Savings: $20,562
- Payback Period: 14.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cascades
See how much it might cost to go solar in Cascades.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Cascades typically cost around 4.Since a 8.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Cascades, the average price of going solar will be about $20,419 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $17,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Cascades that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Cascades
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,820 |
| 3 years | $-15,622 |
| 5 years | $-12,424 |
| 7 years | $-9,226 |
| 9 years | $-6,029 |
| 11 years | $-2,831 |
| 13 years | $367 |
| 15 years | $3,565 |
| 17 years | $6,763 |
| 19 years | $9,961 |
| 21 years | $13,159 |
| 23 years | $16,357 |
| 25 years | $19,554 |
Top Solar Installers in Cascades
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a challenging project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can benefit from and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Cascades
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cascades
While the average cost of a solar system in Cascades is $20,419, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,590.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Cascades, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.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 can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Cascades, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Cascades know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.73 | $15,681 | $11,052 | 14.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $15,139 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $19,426 | 14.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $23,914 | 13.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $28,604 | 13.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $33,494 | 13.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $38,585 | 13.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $43,878 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose considerably impacts 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Cascades, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Cascades?
The average cost of solar panels in Cascades is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Cascades?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Cascades?
Each state has some form 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 offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Cascades?
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 level 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.