Solar Panel Cost Guide in Selah, WA (2024 Update)

  • Selah Solar Installation Cost: $9,708
  • 25-Year Savings: $11,544
  • Payback Period: 12.9 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Selah

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Selah.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Selah generally cost about 4.The average Selah homeowner needs a 3.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,708 with the federal tax credit, or $13,882 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

The actual price you pay can go above or below the average in Selah based on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.

You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Selah that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.

Solar savings over time in Selah

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-8,727
3 years$-6,766
5 years$-4,804
7 years$-2,843
9 years$-882
11 years$1,079
13 years$3,041
15 years$5,002
17 years$6,963
19 years$8,924
21 years$10,886
23 years$12,847
25 years$14,808

Top Solar Installers in Selah

Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a difficult task, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.

If you're searching for a solar installer in Selah, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Selah

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Selah

Though the average cost of a solar system in Selah is $9,708, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,590.The brand of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will largely impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Moreover, solar equipment goes beyond 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 looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Selah provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar system can affect the cost. Selah’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Selah are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.73$15,681$13,42813.5 years
8 kW$3.66$20,506$18,30613.2 years
10 kW$3.59$25,130$23,38512.9 years
12 kW$3.52$29,553$28,66512.7 years
14 kW$3.45$33,775$34,14612.4 years
16 kW$3.37$37,796$39,82812.2 years
18 kW$3.30$41,615$45,71111.9 years
20 kW$3.23$45,234$51,79611.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of companies available in Selah, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Selah, WA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Selah?

The average cost of solar panels in Selah is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Selah?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.

Does Selah have a net metering program?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you 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 consumption and how much 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 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.