Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dunn Loring, VA (2023 Update)
- Dunn Loring Solar Installation Cost: $15,521
- 25-Year Savings: $20,682
- Payback Period: 10.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dunn Loring
We go over average solar pricing in Dunn Loring.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Dunn Loring it's 2.75 per watt. Since a 8.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Dunn Loring, the average price of going solar will be about $15,515 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Dunn Loring homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. 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 electricity bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dunn Loring
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,401 |
| 3 years | $-15,159 |
| 5 years | $-14,918 |
| 7 years | $-14,677 |
| 9 years | $-14,435 |
| 11 years | $-14,194 |
| 13 years | $-13,953 |
| 15 years | $-13,711 |
| 17 years | $-13,470 |
| 19 years | $-13,229 |
| 21 years | $-12,987 |
| 23 years | $-12,746 |
| 25 years | $-12,504 |
Top Solar Installers in Dunn Loring
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Dunn Loring, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Dunn Loring
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dunn Loring
There are several criteria that can affect your total 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 cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better 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 $2,750. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much 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 financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Dunn Loring, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Dunn Loring, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $14,928 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.81 | $15,708 | $20,212 | 10.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.75 | $19,250 | $25,650 | 10.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.69 | $22,638 | $31,242 | 10.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.64 | $25,872 | $36,988 | 10.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.58 | $28,952 | $42,888 | 10.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.53 | $31,878 | $48,942 | 9.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.48 | $34,650 | $55,150 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: When reading through your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Dunn Loring, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dunn Loring?
The average cost of solar panels in Dunn Loring 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 things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Do solar panels increase the value of your home?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Dunn Loring is currently $799,898, so you could be looking at a value of about $32,796 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Dunn Loring is a rewarding investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage 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 cover 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.