Solar Panel Cost Guide in Golden Gate, FL (2024 Update)
- Golden Gate Solar Installation Cost: $11,905
- 25-Year Savings: $19,776
- Payback Period: 10.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Golden Gate
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Golden Gate.
In Golden Gate, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.The average Golden Gate homeowner needs a 5.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,905 with the federal tax credit, or $17,024 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will vary based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.Despite the large upfront cost, the average Golden Gate homeowner can save about $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Golden Gate
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,531 |
| 3 years | $-7,784 |
| 5 years | $-5,037 |
| 7 years | $-2,289 |
| 9 years | $458 |
| 11 years | $3,205 |
| 13 years | $5,952 |
| 15 years | $8,700 |
| 17 years | $11,447 |
| 19 years | $14,194 |
| 21 years | $16,941 |
| 23 years | $19,688 |
| 25 years | $22,436 |
Top Solar Installers in Golden Gate
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and knowledge. For that reason, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Golden Gate
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Golden Gate
The cost of installing a solar system in Golden Gate can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Golden Gate, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,210 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Golden Gate to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Golden Gate know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $3.34 | $14,021 | $19,000 | 10.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.27 | $18,336 | $25,693 | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.21 | $22,470 | $32,566 | 10.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.15 | $26,425 | $39,619 | 10.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.08 | $30,200 | $46,851 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.02 | $33,795 | $54,263 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.95 | $37,210 | $61,855 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.89 | $40,446 | $69,626 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly influences your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Golden Gate, FL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Golden Gate?
The average cost of solar panels in Golden Gate is about $16,050 for a 5-kW system and $32,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Golden Gate?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it often 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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Golden Gate?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.