Solar Panel Cost Guide in Casper, WY (2024 Update)
- Casper Solar Installation Cost: $37,412
- 25-Year Savings: $48,479
- Payback Period: 12.4 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Casper
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Casper.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Casper it’s 4 per watt.Since a 14.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Casper, the average price of going solar will be about $37,412 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are only estimates, and how much solar costs for you may look different based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $19,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar company in Casper, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Casper
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-36,290 |
| 3 years | $-34,045 |
| 5 years | $-31,800 |
| 7 years | $-29,555 |
| 9 years | $-27,310 |
| 11 years | $-25,065 |
| 13 years | $-22,819 |
| 15 years | $-20,574 |
| 17 years | $-18,329 |
| 19 years | $-16,084 |
| 21 years | $-13,839 |
| 23 years | $-11,594 |
| 25 years | $-9,349 |
Top Solar Installers in Casper
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren’t sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Casper
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Casper
There are many factors that can influence your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,580.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Casper, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of 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
Most solar installers in Casper provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.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 can only 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 APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Casper are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage 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 | $3.72 | $15,637 | $14,640 | 12.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $19,921 | 12.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $25,403 | 12.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $31,084 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $36,967 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $43,050 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $49,333 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $55,817 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Casper, 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:
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
EcoWatch's Casper, WY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Casper?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Casper?
Solar panels aren’t free in Casper, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,009.25 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though 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 once you've had 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.