Solar Panel Cost Guide in Williamsburg, VA (2023 Update)
- Williamsburg Solar Installation Cost: $14,465
- 25-Year Savings: $21,739
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Williamsburg
We go over average solar pricing in Williamsburg.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Williamsburg typically cost around 2.75. The average Williamsburg homeowner needs a 7.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,457 with the federal tax credit, or $20,674 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Williamsburg depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Williamsburg
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,344 |
| 3 years | $-14,103 |
| 5 years | $-13,862 |
| 7 years | $-13,620 |
| 9 years | $-13,379 |
| 11 years | $-13,137 |
| 13 years | $-12,896 |
| 15 years | $-12,655 |
| 17 years | $-12,413 |
| 19 years | $-12,172 |
| 21 years | $-11,931 |
| 23 years | $-11,689 |
| 25 years | $-11,448 |
Top Solar Installers in Williamsburg
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a dangerous task, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Williamsburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Williamsburg
For many Williamsburg homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Williamsburg, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Williamsburg, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,750 for each additional kilowatt you need. The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will considerably influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Furthermore, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Williamsburg to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar panels can influence the cost. Williamsburg's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car 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 | $16,896 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.81 | $15,708 | $22,836 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.75 | $19,250 | $28,930 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.69 | $22,638 | $35,177 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.64 | $25,872 | $41,579 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.58 | $28,952 | $48,135 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.53 | $31,878 | $54,845 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.48 | $34,650 | $61,709 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will influence not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar 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
EcoWatch's Williamsburg, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Williamsburg?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Williamsburg have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs 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 get 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.