Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wheeling, WV (2024 Update)
- Wheeling Solar Installation Cost: $27,133
- 25-Year Savings: $27,958
- Payback Period: 13.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wheeling
Here’s how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Wheeling.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Wheeling generally cost around 3.The average solar panel system size in Wheeling is around 11.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $27,133 for a solar installation, or $38,800 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs may vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar installation company in Wheeling, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Wheeling
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,704 |
| 3 years | $-22,845 |
| 5 years | $-19,986 |
| 7 years | $-17,127 |
| 9 years | $-14,268 |
| 11 years | $-11,409 |
| 13 years | $-8,550 |
| 15 years | $-5,691 |
| 17 years | $-2,832 |
| 19 years | $27 |
| 21 years | $2,886 |
| 23 years | $5,745 |
| 25 years | $8,603 |
Top Solar Installers in Wheeling
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for you.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Wheeling:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Wheeling
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wheeling
While the average cost of a solar system in Wheeling is $27,133, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will significantly impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Further, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Wheeling homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Wheeling, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Wheeling have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $3.53 | $14,808 | $10,951 | 14.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.46 | $19,364 | $14,981 | 14.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.39 | $23,730 | $19,201 | 13.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.32 | $27,906 | $23,611 | 13.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.25 | $31,893 | $28,210 | 13.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.19 | $35,690 | $33,000 | 13.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.12 | $39,297 | $37,979 | 12.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.05 | $42,714 | $43,148 | 12.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will impact not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you 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 what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Wheeling, WV Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Wheeling?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $16,950 for a 5-kW system and $33,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Wheeling?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Is it worth going solar in Wheeling?
Solar panels can be a great investment for many 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 long do solar panels last in Wheeling?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to 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.