Solar Panel Cost Guide in Altoona, WI (2023 Update)
- Altoona Solar Installation Cost: $13,482
- 25-Year Savings: $23,359
- Payback Period: 9.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Altoona
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Altoona.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Altoona generally cost about 2.6. Using this figure, a typical 7.4-kW system would cost about $13,486 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Altoona homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With average savings of about $19,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Altoona find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Altoona
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,377 |
| 3 years | $-10,169 |
| 5 years | $-7,960 |
| 7 years | $-5,752 |
| 9 years | $-3,543 |
| 11 years | $-1,335 |
| 13 years | $874 |
| 15 years | $3,082 |
| 17 years | $5,291 |
| 19 years | $7,499 |
| 21 years | $9,708 |
| 23 years | $11,916 |
| 25 years | $14,125 |
Top Solar Installers in Altoona
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Altoona
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Altoona
The cost of installing a solar system in Altoona can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Altoona, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,600 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Altoona, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Altoona homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. 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 more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar system can impact your pricing. Altoona's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and choose a company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.70 | $11,357 | $18,484 | 9.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $24,936 | 9.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $31,534 | 9.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $38,278 | 9.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $45,167 | 8.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $52,202 | 8.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $59,383 | 8.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $66,709 | 8.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Altoona, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system's energy production.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Altoona, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Altoona?
The average cost of solar panels in Altoona is about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Altoona?
A solar panel system isn't free in Altoona, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does Altoona have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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 utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Altoona?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.