Solar Panel Cost Guide in Richland, WA (2024 Update)
- Richland Solar Installation Cost: $9,712
- 25-Year Savings: $11,541
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Richland
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Richland.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Richland generally cost about 4.Using this figure, a typical 3.9-kW system would cost about $9,712 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $19,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar company in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Richland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,686 |
| 3 years | $-6,634 |
| 5 years | $-4,581 |
| 7 years | $-2,529 |
| 9 years | $-477 |
| 11 years | $1,575 |
| 13 years | $3,627 |
| 15 years | $5,679 |
| 17 years | $7,731 |
| 19 years | $9,783 |
| 21 years | $11,835 |
| 23 years | $13,887 |
| 25 years | $15,939 |
Top Solar Installers in Richland
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installation company since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult 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 home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Richland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Richland
For many Richland homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Richland, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably 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. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Richland average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Richland, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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 how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Richland is the company you get to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Richland are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $3.73 | $15,681 | $13,416 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $18,290 | 13.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $23,365 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $28,641 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $34,118 | 12.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $39,796 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $45,675 | 11.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $51,755 | 11.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model 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:
- Contract: When looking over your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
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 Richland, WA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Richland?
The average cost of solar panels in Richland is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Richland?
Solar panels aren’t free in Richland, 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 further reduce the cost.
Is going solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Richland?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.