Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wakefield, VA (2023 Update)
- Wakefield Solar Installation Cost: $15,521
- 25-Year Savings: $20,682
- Payback Period: 10.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wakefield
We go over average solar pricing in Wakefield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Wakefield, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.75 per watt. The average Wakefield homeowner needs a 8.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $15,515 with the federal tax credit, or $22,186 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will differ based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Wakefield see about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Wakefield for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Wakefield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,401 |
| 3 years | $-15,159 |
| 5 years | $-14,918 |
| 7 years | $-14,677 |
| 9 years | $-14,435 |
| 11 years | $-14,194 |
| 13 years | $-13,953 |
| 15 years | $-13,711 |
| 17 years | $-13,470 |
| 19 years | $-13,229 |
| 21 years | $-12,987 |
| 23 years | $-12,746 |
| 25 years | $-12,504 |
Top Solar Installers in Wakefield
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to use a solar company since handling can be a challenging project. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your family.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Wakefield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wakefield
For many Wakefield homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Wakefield, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Wakefield, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,750 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular choice because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Wakefield homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Wakefield, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $14,928 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.81 | $15,708 | $20,212 | 10.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.75 | $19,250 | $25,650 | 10.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.69 | $22,638 | $31,242 | 10.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.64 | $25,872 | $36,988 | 10.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.58 | $28,952 | $42,888 | 10.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.53 | $31,878 | $48,942 | 9.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.48 | $34,650 | $55,150 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Wakefield, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high 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.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Wakefield, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Wakefield?
The average cost of solar panels in Wakefield is about $13,750 for a 5-kW system and $27,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Wakefield?
A solar panel system isn't free in Wakefield, 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 Wakefield 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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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 buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.