Solar Panel Cost Guide in Norton, VA (2023 Update)
- Norton Solar Installation Cost: $20,501
- 25-Year Savings: $18,653
- Payback Period: 14.9 Years
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Updated October 25, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Norton
We break down average solar pricing in Norton.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Norton, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.75 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 8.2-kW system would cost about $15,708 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Norton 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.With average savings of about $16,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Norton find installing solar panels can pay off big.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Norton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,081 |
| 3 years | $-16,242 |
| 5 years | $-13,402 |
| 7 years | $-10,563 |
| 9 years | $-7,723 |
| 11 years | $-4,884 |
| 13 years | $-2,045 |
| 15 years | $795 |
| 17 years | $3,634 |
| 19 years | $6,474 |
| 21 years | $9,313 |
| 23 years | $12,152 |
| 25 years | $14,992 |
Top Solar Installers in Norton
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Norton, optimizing your ROI.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Norton, the EcoWatch team has 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 Norton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Norton
For many Norton homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Norton, 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
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,750.The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Norton, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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 interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can influence how much it costs. Norton's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Norton are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $9,588 | 15.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $13,186 | 15.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $16,985 | 14.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $20,985 | 14.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $25,187 | 14.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $29,589 | 14.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $34,192 | 13.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $38,997 | 13.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Norton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Norton, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Norton?
The average cost of solar panels in Norton 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 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 Norton?
You can't get solar panels for free in Norton. 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 switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Norton?
Even though 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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.