Solar Panel Cost Guide in Beaver Dam, WI (2024 Update)
- Beaver Dam Solar Installation Cost: $19,771
- 25-Year Savings: $27,099
- Payback Period: 12.3 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Beaver Dam
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Beaver Dam.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Beaver Dam generally cost about 4.The average Beaver Dam homeowner needs a 7.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,771 with the federal tax credit, or $28,273 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Beaver Dam depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Beaver Dam
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,475 |
| 3 years | $-15,884 |
| 5 years | $-13,293 |
| 7 years | $-10,703 |
| 9 years | $-8,112 |
| 11 years | $-5,521 |
| 13 years | $-2,930 |
| 15 years | $-339 |
| 17 years | $2,252 |
| 19 years | $4,843 |
| 21 years | $7,434 |
| 23 years | $10,025 |
| 25 years | $12,616 |
Top Solar Installers in Beaver Dam
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and know-how. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Another advantage of utilizing a solar company is that they can help you optimize your investment by reducing your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
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 near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Beaver Dam
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Beaver Dam
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Beaver Dam: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant 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 electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,880 per kilowatt in Beaver Dam.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Beaver Dam, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Beaver Dam provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you pick will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you want 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 | $4.04 | $16,948 | $16,308 | 12.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $22,179 | 12.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $28,266 | 12.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $34,572 | 12.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $41,094 | 11.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $47,834 | 11.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $54,791 | 11.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $61,965 | 11.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While 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 deciding.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Beaver Dam, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Beaver Dam?
The average cost of solar panels in Beaver Dam is about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Beaver Dam?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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.
Is it worth going solar in Beaver Dam?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Beaver Dam?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had 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.