Solar Panel Cost Guide in Vinton, VA (2023 Update)
- Vinton Solar Installation Cost: $15,027
- 25-Year Savings: $20,913
- Payback Period: 10.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Vinton
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Vinton.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Vinton is 2.75 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Vinton is around 7.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,034 for a solar installation, or $21,499 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Vinton can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Vinton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,907 |
| 3 years | $-14,667 |
| 5 years | $-14,428 |
| 7 years | $-14,188 |
| 9 years | $-13,948 |
| 11 years | $-13,709 |
| 13 years | $-13,469 |
| 15 years | $-13,230 |
| 17 years | $-12,990 |
| 19 years | $-12,750 |
| 21 years | $-12,511 |
| 23 years | $-12,271 |
| 25 years | $-12,032 |
Top Solar Installers in Vinton
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Vinton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Vinton
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Vinton is $15,034, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Vinton average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Vinton have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a role in determining the cost. Vinton's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and go with the company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $15,612 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.81 | $15,708 | $21,125 | 10.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.75 | $19,250 | $26,791 | 10.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.69 | $22,638 | $32,611 | 10.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.64 | $25,872 | $38,585 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.58 | $28,952 | $44,713 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.53 | $31,878 | $50,995 | 9.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.48 | $34,650 | $57,432 | 9.4 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 efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing 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
EcoWatch's Vinton, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Vinton?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Vinton?
You can't get solar panels for free in Vinton. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Vinton have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels 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 usually 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.