Solar Panel Cost Guide in Shady Spring, WV (2023 Update)

  • Shady Spring Solar Installation Cost: $20,297
  • 25-Year Savings: $28,384
  • Payback Period: 10.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Shady Spring

Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Shady Spring.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Shady Spring generally cost about 2.64. The average Shady Spring homeowner needs a 11.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $20,291 with the federal tax credit, or $29,016 before the 30% tax credit is applied.

The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Shady Spring depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. With typical savings of about $17,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Shady Spring find going solar has a decent ROI.

For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Shady Spring

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-18,672
3 years $-15,420
5 years $-12,169
7 years $-8,918
9 years $-5,666
11 years $-2,415
13 years $836
15 years $4,088
17 years $7,339
19 years $10,590
21 years $13,842
23 years $17,093
25 years $20,344

Top Solar Installers in Shady Spring

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Shady Spring, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Shady Spring

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Shady Spring

While the average cost of a solar system in Shady Spring is $20,291, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, 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. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Shady Spring, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries 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 Shady Spring, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Shady Spring homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you choose will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Shady Spring 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 walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 $15,062 10.8 years
8 kW $2.69 $15,080 $20,378 10.6 years
10 kW $2.64 $18,480 $25,842 10.4 years
12 kW $2.59 $21,732 $31,454 10.2 years
14 kW $2.53 $24,837 $37,214 10.0 years
16 kW $2.48 $27,794 $43,122 9.8 years
18 kW $2.43 $30,603 $49,178 9.6 years
20 kW $2.38 $33,264 $55,381 9.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar installer you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, such as:

  • Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
  • Contract: When reading over your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or the company going out of business.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • 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 Shady Spring, WV Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Shady Spring?

The average cost of solar panels in Shady Spring 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 stuff like 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 Shady Spring?

Solar panels aren't free in Shady Spring, 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 you can take advantage of.

Does Shady Spring have a net metering program?

Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.

How long do solar panels last in Shady Spring?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.

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.

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