Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chamberlayne, VA (2024 Update)
- Chamberlayne Solar Installation Cost: $19,553
- 25-Year Savings: $4,153
- Payback Period: 25.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chamberlayne
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Chamberlayne.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Chamberlayne, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average Chamberlayne homeowner needs a 7.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,553 with the federal tax credit, or $27,961 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Chamberlayne homeowners. 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.Even with the significant initial cost, the average Chamberlayne homeowner can save about $9,800 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Chamberlayne
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,954 |
| 3 years | $-14,756 |
| 5 years | $-11,558 |
| 7 years | $-8,361 |
| 9 years | $-5,163 |
| 11 years | $-1,965 |
| 13 years | $1,233 |
| 15 years | $4,431 |
| 17 years | $7,629 |
| 19 years | $10,827 |
| 21 years | $14,025 |
| 23 years | $17,223 |
| 25 years | $20,420 |
Top Solar Installers in Chamberlayne
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it involves extra time and knowledge. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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
See all of the solar companies in Chamberlayne
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chamberlayne
There are many criteria that can determine your 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 panel system you need for your home, 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 $3,590. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only 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 a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Chamberlayne, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Chamberlayne, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $-929 | 26.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $-836 | 26.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $-543 | 25.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $-48 | 25.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $647 | 24.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $1,544 | 24.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $2,641 | 23.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $3,940 | 23.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar system, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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
EcoWatch's Chamberlayne, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Chamberlayne?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How will installing solar panels impact how much my home is worth?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Chamberlayne is currently $347,798, which means you can expect a value of about $14,260 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Chamberlayne is a rewarding investment.
How long do solar panels last in Chamberlayne?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.