Solar Panel Cost Guide in South Run, VA (2023 Update)
- South Run Solar Installation Cost: $15,521
- 25-Year Savings: $21,080
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in South Run
We break down average solar pricing in South Run.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in South Run it's 2.75 per watt. The average solar panel system size in South Run is around 8.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,515 for a solar installation, or $22,186 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installation company in South Run, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in South Run
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,399 |
| 3 years | $-15,155 |
| 5 years | $-14,911 |
| 7 years | $-14,667 |
| 9 years | $-14,423 |
| 11 years | $-14,179 |
| 13 years | $-13,935 |
| 15 years | $-13,691 |
| 17 years | $-13,447 |
| 19 years | $-13,203 |
| 21 years | $-12,959 |
| 23 years | $-12,715 |
| 25 years | $-12,471 |
Top Solar Installers in South Run
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a stressful task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in South Run:
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 South Run
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in South Run
There are a number of criteria that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in South Run, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,750 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in South Run offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in South Run is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with 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 vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's South Run, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in South Run?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,750 for a 5-kW system and $27,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in South Run?
Solar panels aren't free in South Run, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does South Run have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.