Solar Panel Cost Guide in Culpeper, VA (2024 Update)
- Culpeper Solar Installation Cost: $20,066
- 25-Year Savings: $19,907
- Payback Period: 13.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Culpeper
We go over average solar pricing in Culpeper.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Culpeper typically cost about 4.Using this figure, a typical 8.0-kW system would cost about $20,066 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Culpeper 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.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar company in Culpeper, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Culpeper
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,467 |
| 3 years | $-15,270 |
| 5 years | $-12,072 |
| 7 years | $-8,874 |
| 9 years | $-5,676 |
| 11 years | $-2,478 |
| 13 years | $720 |
| 15 years | $3,918 |
| 17 years | $7,116 |
| 19 years | $10,313 |
| 21 years | $13,511 |
| 23 years | $16,709 |
| 25 years | $19,907 |
Top Solar Installers in Culpeper
Installing solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company as well, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Culpeper
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Culpeper
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Culpeper is $20,066, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $3,590 per kilowatt in Culpeper.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Culpeper, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Culpeper to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Culpeper, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — 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 go with the 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 | $3.73 | $15,681 | $11,980 | 14.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $16,376 | 13.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $20,972 | 13.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $25,770 | 13.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $30,768 | 13.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $35,968 | 12.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $41,369 | 12.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $46,970 | 12.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Culpeper, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Culpeper, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Culpeper?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Culpeper?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Culpeper?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.