Solar Panel Cost Guide in Richlands, VA (2025 Update)

  • Richlands Solar Installation Cost: $20,758
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,039
  • Payback Period: 14.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Richlands

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Richlands.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Richlands, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Richlands homeowner needs a 8.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $20,758 with the federal tax credit, or $29,684 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Richlands homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With typical savings of about $17,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Richlands find going solar has a decent ROI.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Richlands

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-19,338
3 years$-16,499
5 years$-13,660
7 years$-10,820
9 years$-7,981
11 years$-5,141
13 years$-2,302
15 years$537
17 years$3,377
19 years$6,216
21 years$9,056
23 years$11,895
25 years$14,734

Top Solar Installers in Richlands

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Plus, if you’re not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Richlands, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

Advertisement

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5
  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

See all of the solar companies in Richlands

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Richlands

There are many criteria that can affect your 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 size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,590. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Richlands, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Richlands to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s important to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Richlands, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.73$15,681$10,42415.0 years
8 kW$3.66$20,506$14,30114.7 years
10 kW$3.59$25,130$18,37914.4 years
12 kW$3.52$29,553$22,65814.2 years
14 kW$3.45$33,775$27,13813.9 years
16 kW$3.37$37,796$31,81913.6 years
18 kW$3.30$41,615$36,70113.3 years
20 kW$3.23$45,234$41,78413.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many companies to choose from in Richlands, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Warranty: If you’re worried about the longevity of your solar energy system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
Advertisement

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5
  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

EcoWatch's Richlands, VA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Richlands?

The average cost of solar panels in Richlands is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Can you get solar panels for free in Richlands?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Richlands. However, you may still be able to install 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 how much direct sunlight your roof gets.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 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.