Solar Panel Cost Guide in Charlottesville, VA (2024 Update)

  • Charlottesville Solar Installation Cost: $19,796
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,657
  • Payback Period: 13.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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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 Charlottesville

Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Charlottesville.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Charlottesville generally cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 7.9-kW system would cost about $19,796 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Charlottesville homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Charlottesville see about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Charlottesville

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-18,230
3 years $-15,097
5 years $-11,965
7 years $-8,832
9 years $-5,699
11 years $-2,567
13 years $566
15 years $3,699
17 years $6,831
19 years $9,964
21 years $13,097
23 years $16,230
25 years $19,362

Top Solar Installers in Charlottesville

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installers can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.

If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Charlottesville:

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 Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Charlottesville

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Charlottesville

While the average cost of a solar system in Charlottesville is $19,796, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

One of the most significant 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 power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,590 per kilowatt in Charlottesville.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Charlottesville to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to higher prices over time due to interest.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can influence how much it costs. Charlottesville’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The company’s size sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.

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 $12,364 14.0 years
8 kW $3.66 $20,506 $16,887 13.7 years
10 kW $3.59 $25,130 $21,611 13.4 years
12 kW $3.52 $29,553 $26,537 13.2 years
14 kW $3.45 $33,775 $31,663 12.9 years
16 kW $3.37 $37,796 $36,990 12.6 years
18 kW $3.30 $41,615 $42,519 12.4 years
20 kW $3.23 $45,234 $48,248 12.1 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 picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Contract: When reading through your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.

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 Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

EcoWatch's Charlottesville, VA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Charlottesville?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Charlottesville?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Charlottesville. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Does Charlottesville have a net metering program?

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 utility bills.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.

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