Solar Panel Cost Guide in Center, WI (2023 Update)
- Center Solar Installation Cost: $13,209
- 25-Year Savings: $25,125
- Payback Period: 8.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Center
We go over average solar pricing in Center.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Center generally cost around 2.6. The average solar panel system size in Center is around 7.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,213 for a solar installation, or $18,895 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely differ based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $20,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Center, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Center
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,081 |
| 3 years | $-12,825 |
| 5 years | $-12,570 |
| 7 years | $-12,314 |
| 9 years | $-12,059 |
| 11 years | $-11,803 |
| 13 years | $-11,548 |
| 15 years | $-11,292 |
| 17 years | $-11,037 |
| 19 years | $-10,781 |
| 21 years | $-10,525 |
| 23 years | $-10,270 |
| 25 years | $-10,014 |
Top Solar Installers in Center
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for your home.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Center, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Center
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Center
The cost of installing a solar system in Center can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Center, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited 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 utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Center homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's important to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Center have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.70 | $11,357 | $20,334 | 9.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $27,404 | 8.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $34,619 | 8.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $41,979 | 8.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $49,485 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $57,137 | 8.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $64,934 | 7.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $72,877 | 7.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Center, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
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 Center, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Center?
The average cost of solar panels in Center is about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.