Solar Panel Cost Guide in Triangle, VA (2024 Update)

  • Triangle Solar Installation Cost: $20,044
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,447
  • Payback Period: 13.6 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

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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 Triangle

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Triangle.

In Triangle, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Since a 8.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Triangle, the average price of going solar will be about $20,044 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Triangle depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Even with the high upfront cost, the average Triangle homeowner can save about $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.

Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in Triangle for a personalized quote.

Solar savings over time in Triangle

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-18,445
3 years$-15,247
5 years$-12,049
7 years$-8,851
9 years$-5,653
11 years$-2,455
13 years$743
15 years$3,941
17 years$7,138
19 years$10,336
21 years$13,534
23 years$16,732
25 years$19,930

Top Solar Installers in Triangle

Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra effort and knowledge. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

If you're looking for a solar company in Triangle, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

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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 Triangle

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Triangle

For many Triangle homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Triangle, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Triangle, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. 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 Triangle to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.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 can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you choose will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to greater resources and bulk 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 promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.73$15,681$12,00214.2 years
8 kW$3.66$20,506$16,40513.9 years
10 kW$3.59$25,130$21,00913.6 years
12 kW$3.52$29,553$25,81413.3 years
14 kW$3.45$33,775$30,81913.1 years
16 kW$3.37$37,796$36,02612.8 years
18 kW$3.30$41,615$41,43412.5 years
20 kW$3.23$45,234$47,04312.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model of solar panels and the 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
  • Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
  • Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
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Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

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

EcoWatch's Triangle, VA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Triangle?

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

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Does Triangle have a net metering program?

Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.

How long do solar panels last in Triangle?

Although 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can 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.