Solar Panel Cost Guide in Long Branch, VA (2024 Update)
- Long Branch Solar Installation Cost: $20,263
- 25-Year Savings: $3,609
- Payback Period: 26.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Long Branch
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Long Branch.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Long Branch it’s 4 per watt.The average Long Branch homeowner needs a 8.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $20,263 with the federal tax credit, or $28,976 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Long Branch based on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Even with the large initial cost, the average Long Branch homeowner can save around $9,500 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installer in Long Branch, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Long Branch
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,664 |
| 3 years | $-15,466 |
| 5 years | $-12,268 |
| 7 years | $-9,070 |
| 9 years | $-5,872 |
| 11 years | $-2,674 |
| 13 years | $524 |
| 15 years | $3,722 |
| 17 years | $6,919 |
| 19 years | $10,117 |
| 21 years | $13,315 |
| 23 years | $16,513 |
| 25 years | $19,711 |
Top Solar Installers in Long Branch
Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 Long Branch
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Long Branch
For many Long Branch homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Long Branch, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
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 electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,590 per kilowatt in Long Branch.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Long Branch average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable option because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Long Branch homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Long Branch, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Long Branch are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $-1,445 | 27.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $-1,525 | 27.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $-1,404 | 26.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $-1,081 | 25.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $-558 | 25.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $166 | 24.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $1,092 | 24.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $2,218 | 23.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Long Branch, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Long Branch, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Long Branch?
The average cost of solar panels in Long Branch 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 things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Long Branch?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Long Branch. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 install 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.