Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fairfax, VA (2024 Update)
- Fairfax Solar Installation Cost: $20,251
- 25-Year Savings: $4,251
- Payback Period: 25.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fairfax
We break down average solar pricing in Fairfax.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Fairfax, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Fairfax homeowner needs a 8.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $20,251 with the federal tax credit, or $28,959 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Fairfax homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $9,800 over 20 years on utility bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in Fairfax for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Fairfax
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,652 |
| 3 years | $-15,454 |
| 5 years | $-12,256 |
| 7 years | $-9,058 |
| 9 years | $-5,860 |
| 11 years | $-2,663 |
| 13 years | $535 |
| 15 years | $3,733 |
| 17 years | $6,931 |
| 19 years | $10,129 |
| 21 years | $13,327 |
| 23 years | $16,525 |
| 25 years | $19,723 |
Top Solar Installers in Fairfax
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to use a solar installer since handling can be a challenging project. Some solar installers, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Fairfax, thereby optimizing your ROI.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Fairfax
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fairfax
For many Fairfax homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Fairfax, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production need 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.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Fairfax average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Fairfax homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going 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’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 securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Fairfax, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car 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 | $-966 | 26.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $-887 | 26.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $-606 | 25.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $-124 | 25.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $559 | 24.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $1,444 | 24.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $2,529 | 23.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $3,815 | 23.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Solar 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 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 Fairfax, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fairfax?
The average cost of solar panels in Fairfax 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 like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Fairfax?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Fairfax. However, you may still be able to afford 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.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know 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 house 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.