Solar Panel Cost Guide in DeForest, WI (2024 Update)
- DeForest Solar Installation Cost: $19,756
- 25-Year Savings: $24,053
- Payback Period: 13.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in DeForest
We break down average solar pricing in DeForest.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in DeForest, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in DeForest is around 7.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $19,756 for a solar installation, or $28,251 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $19,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in DeForest find going solar can be quite rewarding.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in DeForest
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,511 |
| 3 years | $-16,019 |
| 5 years | $-13,527 |
| 7 years | $-11,035 |
| 9 years | $-8,544 |
| 11 years | $-6,052 |
| 13 years | $-3,560 |
| 15 years | $-1,068 |
| 17 years | $1,423 |
| 19 years | $3,915 |
| 21 years | $6,407 |
| 23 years | $8,898 |
| 25 years | $11,390 |
Top Solar Installers in DeForest
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra time and expertise. For that reason, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, going with a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 DeForest
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in DeForest
For many DeForest homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in DeForest, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many DeForest homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you pick will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in DeForest know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 end up saving you 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 | $4.04 | $16,948 | $13,812 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $18,850 | 13.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $24,106 | 13.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $29,579 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $35,270 | 12.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $41,177 | 12.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $47,302 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $53,645 | 11.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in DeForest, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you’d like to get plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 DeForest, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in DeForest?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in DeForest?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for 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 generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.