Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stevens Point, WI (2023 Update)
- Stevens Point Solar Installation Cost: $13,329
- 25-Year Savings: $23,625
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stevens Point
We break down average solar pricing in Stevens Point.
In Stevens Point, solar panels cost about 2.6 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Stevens Point is around 7.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,322 for a solar installation, or $19,050 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Stevens Point, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Stevens Point
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,206 |
| 3 years | $-12,959 |
| 5 years | $-12,713 |
| 7 years | $-12,467 |
| 9 years | $-12,220 |
| 11 years | $-11,974 |
| 13 years | $-11,728 |
| 15 years | $-11,481 |
| 17 years | $-11,235 |
| 19 years | $-10,989 |
| 21 years | $-10,742 |
| 23 years | $-10,496 |
| 25 years | $-10,249 |
Top Solar Installers in Stevens Point
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy consumption, but working with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers 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 Stevens Point
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stevens Point
For many Stevens Point homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Stevens Point, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over 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 greater efficiency or power generation require 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 solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for 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 electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Stevens Point average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Stevens Point to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Stevens Point, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost of installation. 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 can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $18,918 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $25,515 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $32,258 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $39,146 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $46,180 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $53,360 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $60,685 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $68,155 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Stevens Point, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you'd like plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Stevens Point, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Stevens Point?
The average cost of solar panels in Stevens Point is about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Stevens Point?
You can't get solar panels for free in Stevens Point. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Stevens Point, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Stevens Point?
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 choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.