Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jackson, WI (2024 Update)
- Jackson Solar Installation Cost: $19,492
- 25-Year Savings: $27,712
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jackson
Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Jackson.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Jackson, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.2-kW system would cost about $19,492 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Jackson homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $22,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in your area for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Jackson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,196 |
| 3 years | $-15,605 |
| 5 years | $-13,014 |
| 7 years | $-10,423 |
| 9 years | $-7,832 |
| 11 years | $-5,242 |
| 13 years | $-2,651 |
| 15 years | $-60 |
| 17 years | $2,531 |
| 19 years | $5,122 |
| 21 years | $7,713 |
| 23 years | $10,304 |
| 25 years | $12,895 |
Top Solar Installers in Jackson
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar installation company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance in the long run.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations 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
See all of the solar companies in Jackson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jackson
The cost of installing a solar system in Jackson can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,880. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Jackson, where sunlight is relatively 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 companies in Jackson have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Jackson, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — 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 want 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 | $4.04 | $16,948 | $17,140 | 12.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $23,288 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $29,653 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $36,235 | 11.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $43,035 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $50,052 | 11.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $57,286 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $64,738 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose considerably affects your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar energy system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Jackson, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Jackson?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 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 consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Jackson?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Jackson. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Jackson?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces 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 long do solar panels last in Jackson?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 higher 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.