Solar Panel Cost Guide in Westport, WI (Mar 2023)
- Westport Solar Installation Cost: $13,231
- 25-Year Savings: $25,781
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Westport
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Westport.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Westport generally cost around 2.6. The average solar panel system size in Westport is around 7.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,231 for a solar installation, or $18,920 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you choose, your solar contractor and more. Even with the high initial cost, the average Westport homeowner can save around $20,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Westport that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Westport
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,671 |
| 3 years | $-8,550 |
| 5 years | $-5,429 |
| 7 years | $-2,308 |
| 9 years | $813 |
| 11 years | $3,934 |
| 13 years | $7,055 |
| 15 years | $10,176 |
| 17 years | $13,297 |
| 19 years | $16,418 |
| 21 years | $19,539 |
| 23 years | $22,660 |
| 25 years | $25,781 |
Top Solar Installers in Westport
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Westport, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Westport
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Westport
There are many factors that can affect your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Westport provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Westport, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $20,822 | 8.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $28,054 | 8.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $35,431 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $42,954 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $50,623 | 8.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $58,437 | 8.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $66,397 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $74,503 | 7.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, 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 model of solar panel you want to install plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Westport, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Westport?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Westport?
Solar panels aren't free in Westport, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having 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.