Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lancaster, WI (2023 Update)
- Lancaster Solar Installation Cost: $13,183
- 25-Year Savings: $22,822
- Payback Period: 9.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lancaster
We break down average solar pricing in Lancaster.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Lancaster typically cost about 2.6. The average solar panel system size in Lancaster is around 7.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,177 for a solar installation, or $18,843 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Lancaster homeowners. The cost 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. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in Lancaster, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Lancaster
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,063 |
| 3 years | $-12,823 |
| 5 years | $-12,583 |
| 7 years | $-12,343 |
| 9 years | $-12,103 |
| 11 years | $-11,863 |
| 13 years | $-11,623 |
| 15 years | $-11,383 |
| 17 years | $-11,143 |
| 19 years | $-10,903 |
| 21 years | $-10,663 |
| 23 years | $-10,423 |
| 25 years | $-10,183 |
Top Solar Installers in Lancaster
Putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Lancaster
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lancaster
There are many factors that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production need 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 type of 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, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Lancaster average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Lancaster, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you select will influence your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of access to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $18,467 | 9.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $24,913 | 9.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $31,506 | 9.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $38,244 | 9.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $45,127 | 8.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $52,156 | 8.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $59,331 | 8.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $66,651 | 8.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Solar panel 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
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 Lancaster, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Lancaster?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $994.11 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.