Solar Panel Cost Guide in Georgia, VT (2025 Update)
- Georgia Solar Installation Cost: $15,500
- 25-Year Savings: $22,340
- Payback Period: 11.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Georgia
Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Georgia.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Georgia, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Georgia, most homeowners require a 5.8-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $15,500, or $22,165 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Even with the significant initial cost, the average Georgia homeowner can save about $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Georgia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,139 |
| 3 years | $-11,417 |
| 5 years | $-8,695 |
| 7 years | $-5,974 |
| 9 years | $-3,252 |
| 11 years | $-530 |
| 13 years | $2,192 |
| 15 years | $4,913 |
| 17 years | $7,635 |
| 19 years | $10,357 |
| 21 years | $13,079 |
| 23 years | $15,800 |
| 25 years | $18,522 |
Top Solar Installers in Georgia
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to go with a solar company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a challenging project. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Georgia, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
See all of the solar companies in Georgia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Georgia
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Georgia is $15,500, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,850 per kilowatt in Georgia.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Georgia, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Georgia, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Georgia, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Georgia know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.00 | $16,817 | $18,543 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.93 | $21,991 | $25,156 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.85 | $26,950 | $31,984 | 11.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.77 | $31,693 | $39,027 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.70 | $36,221 | $46,286 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.62 | $40,533 | $53,761 | 10.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.54 | $44,629 | $61,451 | 10.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.47 | $48,510 | $69,357 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar panel system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
EcoWatch's Georgia, VT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Georgia?
The average cost of solar panels in Georgia is about $19,250 for a 5-kW system and $38,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Georgia?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Georgia?
Each state has some form 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 power 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 amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.