Solar Panel Cost Guide in Saratoga, WI (2023 Update)
- Saratoga Solar Installation Cost: $13,419
- 25-Year Savings: $21,746
- Payback Period: 9.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Saratoga
We break down average solar pricing in Saratoga.
The average cost of a solar system in Saratoga is 2.6 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.4-kW system would cost about $13,413 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Despite the large initial cost, the average Saratoga homeowner can save about $18,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in Saratoga for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Saratoga
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,301 |
| 3 years | $-13,067 |
| 5 years | $-12,833 |
| 7 years | $-12,598 |
| 9 years | $-12,364 |
| 11 years | $-12,129 |
| 13 years | $-11,895 |
| 15 years | $-11,661 |
| 17 years | $-11,426 |
| 19 years | $-11,192 |
| 21 years | $-10,957 |
| 23 years | $-10,723 |
| 25 years | $-10,488 |
Top Solar Installers in Saratoga
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful task, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also have access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for you.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Saratoga
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Saratoga
The cost of installing a solar system in Saratoga can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,600 per kilowatt in Saratoga. The brand of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will significantly affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Further, solar equipment goes beyond 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 looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Saratoga homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going 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 reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you pick will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Saratoga have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $2.70 | $11,357 | $17,259 | 9.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $23,304 | 9.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $29,494 | 9.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $35,829 | 9.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $42,310 | 9.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $48,937 | 9.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $55,710 | 8.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $62,628 | 8.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Saratoga, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want to get plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
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 Saratoga, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Saratoga?
The average cost of solar panels in Saratoga is about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Saratoga?
You can't get solar panels for free in Saratoga. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Saratoga, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much 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 buy 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.