Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wellington, CO (2024 Update)
- Wellington Solar Installation Cost: $15,046
- 25-Year Savings: $15,970
- Payback Period: 14.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wellington
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Wellington.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Wellington, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Wellington homeowner needs a 5.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $15,046 with the federal tax credit, or $21,516 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Wellington homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Wellington can save about $18,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Wellington
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,078 |
| 3 years | $-12,142 |
| 5 years | $-10,205 |
| 7 years | $-8,269 |
| 9 years | $-6,333 |
| 11 years | $-4,397 |
| 13 years | $-2,461 |
| 15 years | $-524 |
| 17 years | $1,412 |
| 19 years | $3,348 |
| 21 years | $5,284 |
| 23 years | $7,220 |
| 25 years | $9,157 |
Top Solar Installers in Wellington
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. 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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Wellington
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wellington
The cost of installing a solar system in Wellington can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Wellington, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Wellington 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 avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can play a role in determining the cost. Wellington’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Wellington know more 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 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 | $4.14 | $17,385 | $11,655 | 15.0 years |
| 8 kW | $4.06 | $22,734 | $15,986 | 14.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.98 | $27,860 | $20,540 | 14.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.90 | $32,763 | $25,317 | 14.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.82 | $37,444 | $30,316 | 13.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.74 | $41,901 | $35,538 | 13.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.66 | $46,136 | $40,984 | 13.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.58 | $50,148 | $46,652 | 13.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Wellington, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page 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 updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Wellington, CO Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Wellington?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $19,900 for a 5-kW system and $39,800 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 higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Wellington?
Solar panels aren’t free in Wellington, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Wellington?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last 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.