Solar Panel Cost Guide in Roanoke, VA (2024 Update)
- Roanoke Solar Installation Cost: $19,460
- 25-Year Savings: $2,545
- Payback Period: 27.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Roanoke
We break down average solar pricing in Roanoke.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Roanoke is 4 per watt.The average Roanoke homeowner needs a 7.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,460 with the federal tax credit, or $27,828 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Roanoke homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the significant initial cost, the average Roanoke homeowner can save around $9,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Roanoke
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,040 |
| 3 years | $-15,201 |
| 5 years | $-12,362 |
| 7 years | $-9,522 |
| 9 years | $-6,683 |
| 11 years | $-3,843 |
| 13 years | $-1,004 |
| 15 years | $1,835 |
| 17 years | $4,675 |
| 19 years | $7,514 |
| 21 years | $10,354 |
| 23 years | $13,193 |
| 25 years | $16,032 |
Top Solar Installers in Roanoke
Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. 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're searching for a solar installer in Roanoke, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Roanoke
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Roanoke
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Roanoke is $19,460, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation require 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 model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Further, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Roanoke to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest.Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Roanoke homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will affect your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $-2,159 | 29.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $-2,477 | 28.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $-2,594 | 27.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $-2,510 | 27.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $-2,224 | 26.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $-1,738 | 26.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $-1,050 | 25.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $-162 | 25.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you go with.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
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 Roanoke, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Roanoke?
The average cost of solar panels in Roanoke 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 things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Roanoke?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Roanoke, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Does Roanoke have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 home 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.