Solar Panel Cost Guide in Menasha, WI (2024 Update)
- Menasha Solar Installation Cost: $19,599
- 25-Year Savings: $23,742
- Payback Period: 13.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Menasha
We go over average solar pricing in Menasha.
In Menasha, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Menasha is around 7.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $19,599 for a solar installation, or $28,027 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.With typical savings of about $19,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Menasha find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
To get a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Menasha, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Menasha
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,303 |
| 3 years | $-15,712 |
| 5 years | $-13,121 |
| 7 years | $-10,530 |
| 9 years | $-7,939 |
| 11 years | $-5,348 |
| 13 years | $-2,757 |
| 15 years | $-166 |
| 17 years | $2,425 |
| 19 years | $5,016 |
| 21 years | $7,607 |
| 23 years | $10,198 |
| 25 years | $12,789 |
Top Solar Installers in Menasha
Putting up solar panels yourself can be a stressful task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your location and energy usage, but going with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 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 Menasha
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Menasha
For many Menasha homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Menasha, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,880.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Menasha provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.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 securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar system can affect the cost. Menasha’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Menasha know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $13,713 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $18,719 | 13.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $23,942 | 13.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $29,382 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $35,040 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $40,914 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $47,007 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $53,316 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 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 Menasha, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Menasha?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Menasha?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
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 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.