Solar Panel Cost Guide in Port Washington, WI (2023 Update)
- Port Washington Solar Installation Cost: $12,517
- 25-Year Savings: $25,960
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Port Washington
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Port Washington.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Port Washington, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.6 per watt. The average Port Washington homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,522 with the federal tax credit, or $17,906 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average Port Washington homeowners see about $21,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Port Washington
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,221 |
| 3 years | $-8,630 |
| 5 years | $-6,039 |
| 7 years | $-3,448 |
| 9 years | $-857 |
| 11 years | $1,734 |
| 13 years | $4,325 |
| 15 years | $6,916 |
| 17 years | $9,507 |
| 19 years | $12,098 |
| 21 years | $14,689 |
| 23 years | $17,280 |
| 25 years | $19,870 |
Top Solar Installers in Port Washington
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and handiness. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar installers provide can be invaluable as well, particularly if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment you need.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. 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 Port Washington
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Port Washington
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Port Washington: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation use 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 $2,600. The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will greatly affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Port Washington provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Port Washington, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $22,211 | 8.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $29,907 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $37,747 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $45,733 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $53,865 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $62,143 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $70,566 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $79,134 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you'd like to get plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
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 Port Washington, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Port Washington?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Port Washington?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Port Washington?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.