Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jefferson, WI (2023 Update)
- Jefferson Solar Installation Cost: $13,249
- 25-Year Savings: $22,733
- Payback Period: 9.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jefferson
We break down average solar pricing in Jefferson.
The average cost of a solar system in Jefferson is 2.6 per watt. Because a 7.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Jefferson, the average price of going solar will be about $13,250 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Jefferson homeowner. 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. Despite the high initial cost, the average Jefferson homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Jefferson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,129 |
| 3 years | $-12,889 |
| 5 years | $-12,650 |
| 7 years | $-12,410 |
| 9 years | $-12,170 |
| 11 years | $-11,930 |
| 13 years | $-11,690 |
| 15 years | $-11,450 |
| 17 years | $-11,210 |
| 19 years | $-10,970 |
| 21 years | $-10,731 |
| 23 years | $-10,491 |
| 25 years | $-10,251 |
Top Solar Installers in Jefferson
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Jefferson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jefferson
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Jefferson: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
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 gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Jefferson, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of clean energy solutions in Jefferson, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Some companies 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 cost more. It's best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also is 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 | $18,299 | 9.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $24,690 | 9.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $31,227 | 9.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $37,909 | 9.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $44,737 | 8.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $51,710 | 8.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $58,829 | 8.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $66,094 | 8.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will affect not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system's energy production.
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 Jefferson, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Jefferson?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Jefferson?
Solar panels aren't free in Jefferson, 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 can further reduce the cost.
Does Jefferson have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation 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 many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.