Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ravenswood, WV (Mar 2023)
- Ravenswood Solar Installation Cost: $20,550
- 25-Year Savings: $27,924
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ravenswood
We break down average solar pricing in Ravenswood.
In Ravenswood, solar panels cost about 2.64 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 11.1-kW system would cost about $20,550 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Ravenswood homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Despite the high upfront cost, the average Ravenswood homeowner can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Ravenswood that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Ravenswood
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,611 |
| 3 years | $-14,733 |
| 5 years | $-10,855 |
| 7 years | $-6,977 |
| 9 years | $-3,099 |
| 11 years | $779 |
| 13 years | $4,657 |
| 15 years | $8,535 |
| 17 years | $12,413 |
| 19 years | $16,291 |
| 21 years | $20,169 |
| 23 years | $24,047 |
| 25 years | $27,924 |
Top Solar Installers in Ravenswood
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installation company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a difficult project. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 Ravenswood
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ravenswood
The cost of installing a solar system in Ravenswood can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,640. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower 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 greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Ravenswood, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Ravenswood, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Ravenswood know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of 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 | $2.75 | $11,532 | $14,613 | 11.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.69 | $15,080 | $19,780 | 10.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.64 | $18,480 | $25,095 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.59 | $21,732 | $30,557 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.53 | $24,837 | $36,168 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.48 | $27,794 | $41,926 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.43 | $30,603 | $47,832 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.38 | $33,264 | $53,886 | 9.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Before signing 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 certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the endurance of your solar system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Ravenswood, WV Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ravenswood?
The average cost of solar panels in Ravenswood is about $13,200 for a 5-kW system and $26,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Ravenswood?
You can't get solar panels for free in Ravenswood. 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'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Ravenswood have a net metering program?
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 electricity bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily 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 get 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.