Solar Panel Cost Guide in Deforest, WI (2023 Update)
- Deforest Solar Installation Cost: $13,231
- 25-Year Savings: $24,061
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Deforest
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Deforest.
In Deforest, solar panels cost about 2.6 per watt on average. The average Deforest homeowner needs a 7.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,231 with the federal tax credit, or $18,920 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Deforest can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Deforest
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,740 |
| 3 years | $-8,756 |
| 5 years | $-5,773 |
| 7 years | $-2,790 |
| 9 years | $194 |
| 11 years | $3,177 |
| 13 years | $6,160 |
| 15 years | $9,144 |
| 17 years | $12,127 |
| 19 years | $15,111 |
| 21 years | $18,094 |
| 23 years | $21,077 |
| 25 years | $24,061 |
Top Solar Installers in Deforest
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Some solar companies, particularly local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Deforest, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Deforest
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Deforest
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Deforest: 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 some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better 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 $2,600. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Deforest average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Deforest homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Deforest, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and 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 has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits 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 | $19,403 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $26,162 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $33,066 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $40,116 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $47,312 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $54,653 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $62,140 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $69,773 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Deforest, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type 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 deciding.
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 Deforest, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Deforest?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Deforest?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Deforest?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.