Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chatsworth, GA (2024 Update)
- Chatsworth Solar Installation Cost: $18,493
- 25-Year Savings: $20,828
- Payback Period: 13.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chatsworth
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Chatsworth.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Chatsworth, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.1-kW system would cost about $18,493 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will most likely look different based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Chatsworth for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Chatsworth
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,900 |
| 3 years | $-13,713 |
| 5 years | $-10,527 |
| 7 years | $-7,340 |
| 9 years | $-4,154 |
| 11 years | $-967 |
| 13 years | $2,219 |
| 15 years | $5,406 |
| 17 years | $8,592 |
| 19 years | $11,779 |
| 21 years | $14,965 |
| 23 years | $18,152 |
| 25 years | $21,338 |
Top Solar Installers in Chatsworth
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar company too, which can save you more money over time.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Chatsworth:
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 Chatsworth
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chatsworth
For many Chatsworth homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Chatsworth, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it’s important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof 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. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a solid route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Chatsworth homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Chatsworth, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Chatsworth 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 | $3.89 | $16,336 | $12,065 | 14.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $16,506 | 14.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $21,156 | 13.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $26,016 | 13.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $31,085 | 13.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $36,363 | 13.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $41,851 | 12.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $47,548 | 12.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts 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:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you opt for.
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 Chatsworth, GA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chatsworth?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Chatsworth have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Chatsworth?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.