Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sugar Creek, WI (2023 Update)
- Sugar Creek Solar Installation Cost: $13,122
- 25-Year Savings: $23,126
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sugar Creek
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Sugar Creek.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Sugar Creek it's 2.6 per watt. The average Sugar Creek homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,122 with the federal tax credit, or $18,764 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sugar Creek
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,672 |
| 3 years | $-8,772 |
| 5 years | $-5,872 |
| 7 years | $-2,973 |
| 9 years | $-73 |
| 11 years | $2,827 |
| 13 years | $5,727 |
| 15 years | $8,627 |
| 17 years | $11,527 |
| 19 years | $14,427 |
| 21 years | $17,327 |
| 23 years | $20,226 |
| 25 years | $23,126 |
Top Solar Installers in Sugar Creek
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging task, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Also, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. 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 Sugar Creek
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sugar Creek
For many Sugar Creek homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Sugar Creek, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly 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 main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production use 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. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Sugar Creek, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Sugar Creek to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Sugar Creek, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $18,827 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $25,393 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $32,106 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $38,964 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $45,967 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $53,116 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $60,411 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $67,851 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Sugar Creek, 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, 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 Sugar Creek, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sugar Creek?
The average cost of solar panels in Sugar Creek 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sugar Creek?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home 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 financial benefits from going solar.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Sugar Creek, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 account for 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.