Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jacksonville, AR (2024 Update)
- Jacksonville Solar Installation Cost: $20,489
- 25-Year Savings: $22,944
- Payback Period: 13.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jacksonville
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Jacksonville.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Jacksonville it’s 3 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Jacksonville is around 8.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $20,489 for a solar installation, or $29,299 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs will differ based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
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Solar savings over time in Jacksonville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,033 |
| 3 years | $-16,121 |
| 5 years | $-13,209 |
| 7 years | $-10,297 |
| 9 years | $-7,385 |
| 11 years | $-4,473 |
| 13 years | $-1,561 |
| 15 years | $1,351 |
| 17 years | $4,264 |
| 19 years | $7,176 |
| 21 years | $10,088 |
| 23 years | $13,000 |
| 25 years | $15,912 |
Top Solar Installers in Jacksonville
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, opting for a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
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 Jacksonville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jacksonville
The cost of installing a solar system in Jacksonville can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
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 that have greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,490.The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space 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. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Jacksonville offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Jacksonville, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.63 | $15,244 | $11,838 | 14.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $16,174 | 13.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $20,707 | 13.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $25,434 | 13.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $30,357 | 13.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $35,476 | 12.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $40,790 | 12.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $46,299 | 12.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a quality company.
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 Jacksonville, AR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Jacksonville?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,450 for a 5-kW system and $34,900 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 above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Jacksonville?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 option if you want to get the most savings.
How will solar panels impact the value of my home?
Solar panels can increase your home value considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing solar panels."
How long do solar panels last in Jacksonville?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.