Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gig Harbor, WA (2024 Update)
- Gig Harbor Solar Installation Cost: $10,754
- 25-Year Savings: $10,768
- Payback Period: 14.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gig Harbor
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Gig Harbor.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Gig Harbor typically cost around 4.Since a 4.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Gig Harbor, the average price of going solar will be about $10,754 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.With typical savings of about $18,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Gig Harbor find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Gig Harbor
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,502 |
| 3 years | $-6,998 |
| 5 years | $-4,495 |
| 7 years | $-1,991 |
| 9 years | $513 |
| 11 years | $3,017 |
| 13 years | $5,520 |
| 15 years | $8,024 |
| 17 years | $10,528 |
| 19 years | $13,032 |
| 21 years | $15,535 |
| 23 years | $18,039 |
| 25 years | $20,543 |
Top Solar Installers in Gig Harbor
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance in the long run.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Gig Harbor:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Gig Harbor
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gig Harbor
For many Gig Harbor homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Gig Harbor, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Gig Harbor average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Gig Harbor have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.It’s a good idea to include 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 how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.73 | $15,681 | $10,595 | 14.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $14,529 | 14.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $18,664 | 14.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $22,999 | 14.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $27,536 | 13.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $32,274 | 13.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $37,213 | 13.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $42,353 | 12.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will impact not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although 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 ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar panels, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Gig Harbor, WA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Gig Harbor?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Gig Harbor?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation 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?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires 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.