Solar Panel Cost Guide in South Run, VA (Mar 2023)
- South Run Solar Installation Cost: $15,515
- 25-Year Savings: $21,086
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in South Run
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in South Run.
In South Run, solar panels cost about 2.75 per watt on average. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in South Run, most homeowners require a 8.1-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $15,515, or $22,186 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in South Run
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,051 |
| 3 years | $-11,123 |
| 5 years | $-8,195 |
| 7 years | $-5,267 |
| 9 years | $-2,339 |
| 11 years | $589 |
| 13 years | $3,517 |
| 15 years | $6,445 |
| 17 years | $9,374 |
| 19 years | $12,302 |
| 21 years | $15,230 |
| 23 years | $18,158 |
| 25 years | $21,086 |
Top Solar Installers in South Run
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar company in South Run, 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 (coming 2022)
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in South Run
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in South Run
For many South Run homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in South Run, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better 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 $2,750. The kind 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. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the South Run average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in South Run, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panels can play a role in determining how much you pay. South Run's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.86 | $12,012 | $15,224 | 11.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.81 | $15,708 | $20,607 | 10.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.75 | $19,250 | $26,143 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.69 | $22,638 | $31,834 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.64 | $25,872 | $37,679 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.58 | $28,952 | $43,677 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.53 | $31,878 | $49,830 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.48 | $34,650 | $56,137 | 9.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Long-running 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.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's South Run, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in South Run?
The average cost of solar panels in South Run is about $13,750 for a 5-kW system and $27,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in South Run?
You can't get solar panels for free in South Run. 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.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $907.87 per year.
What solar power system size is right for 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 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 account for 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.