Solar Panel Cost Guide in Norfolk, VA (2024 Update)
- Norfolk Solar Installation Cost: $18,342
- 25-Year Savings: $22,153
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Norfolk
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Norfolk.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Norfolk, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.3-kW system would cost about $18,342 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Norfolk depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Norfolk can save about $19,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installer in Norfolk, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Norfolk
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,743 |
| 3 years | $-13,545 |
| 5 years | $-10,348 |
| 7 years | $-7,150 |
| 9 years | $-3,952 |
| 11 years | $-754 |
| 13 years | $2,444 |
| 15 years | $5,642 |
| 17 years | $8,840 |
| 19 years | $12,038 |
| 21 years | $15,235 |
| 23 years | $18,433 |
| 25 years | $21,631 |
Top Solar Installers in Norfolk
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Plus, if you’re not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations 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 Norfolk
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Norfolk
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Norfolk is $18,342, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,590. 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 choose 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 in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Norfolk average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular route because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Norfolk, 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 come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within 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 | $14,079 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $19,175 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $24,471 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $29,968 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $35,666 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $41,566 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $47,666 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $53,968 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Norfolk, 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:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system’s energy production.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
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 Norfolk, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Norfolk?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, 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 higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Norfolk have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Norfolk?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.