Solar Panel Cost Guide in Caledonia, WI (2024 Update)

  • Caledonia Solar Installation Cost: $18,973
  • 25-Year Savings: $28,059
  • Payback Period: 11.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated June 24, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Caledonia

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

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Caledonia, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $18,973 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will most likely look different based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with.With typical savings of about $22,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Caledonia find going solar has a decent ROI.

Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar company in Caledonia for a custom estimate.

Solar savings over time in Caledonia

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-17,678
3 years$-15,087
5 years$-12,496
7 years$-9,905
9 years$-7,314
11 years$-4,723
13 years$-2,132
15 years$459
17 years$3,050
19 years$5,641
21 years$8,232
23 years$10,823
25 years$13,414

Top Solar Installers in Caledonia

Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels on your own can be challenging. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.

Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

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 Caledonia

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Caledonia

Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Caledonia: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll go over each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production use 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 $3,880.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In general, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Caledonia offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can affect your pricing. Caledonia’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fit into your budget.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.04$16,948$18,07212.1 years
8 kW$3.96$22,163$24,53111.9 years
10 kW$3.88$27,160$31,20611.6 years
12 kW$3.80$31,940$38,09911.4 years
14 kW$3.72$36,503$45,21011.2 years
16 kW$3.65$40,849$52,53810.9 years
18 kW$3.57$44,977$60,08210.7 years
20 kW$3.49$48,888$67,84510.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before making your decision.
  • Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid 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.
  • Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
  • Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

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 Caledonia, WI Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Caledonia?

The average cost of solar panels in Caledonia is about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Can you get solar panels for free in Caledonia?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Caledonia, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,167.33 per year.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.