Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clayton, DE (2025 Update)
- Clayton Solar Installation Cost: $14,236
- 25-Year Savings: $19,963
- Payback Period: 11.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clayton
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Clayton.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Clayton, the average cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.6-kW system would cost about $14,236 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you choose, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $18,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Clayton find investing in solar can pay off big.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Clayton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,835 |
| 3 years | $-10,033 |
| 5 years | $-7,231 |
| 7 years | $-4,429 |
| 9 years | $-1,627 |
| 11 years | $1,175 |
| 13 years | $3,978 |
| 15 years | $6,780 |
| 17 years | $9,582 |
| 19 years | $12,384 |
| 21 years | $15,186 |
| 23 years | $17,988 |
| 25 years | $20,790 |
Top Solar Installers in Clayton
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar contractor too, which can save you more money after your initial investment.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Clayton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clayton
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Clayton is $14,236, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Clayton, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,090 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Clayton, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Clayton 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
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Clayton, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.21 | $13,497 | $15,538 | 11.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.15 | $17,650 | $21,063 | 11.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.09 | $21,630 | $26,761 | 11.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.03 | $25,437 | $32,633 | 11.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.97 | $29,071 | $38,677 | 10.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.90 | $32,532 | $44,894 | 10.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.84 | $35,819 | $51,285 | 10.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.78 | $38,934 | $57,848 | 10.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for 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 sign of a quality company.
- 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 do the job well. Another way you can research your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
EcoWatch's Clayton, DE Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Clayton?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $15,450 for a 5-kW system and $30,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Clayton?
Solar panels aren’t free in Clayton, 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 further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Clayton, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.