Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hartwell, GA (2024 Update)
- Hartwell Solar Installation Cost: $17,503
- 25-Year Savings: $24,553
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hartwell
We break down average solar pricing in Hartwell.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Hartwell typically cost around 4.The average Hartwell homeowner needs a 6.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,503 with the federal tax credit, or $25,029 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Hartwell can save around $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hartwell
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,910 |
| 3 years | $-12,723 |
| 5 years | $-9,537 |
| 7 years | $-6,350 |
| 9 years | $-3,164 |
| 11 years | $22 |
| 13 years | $3,209 |
| 15 years | $6,395 |
| 17 years | $9,582 |
| 19 years | $12,768 |
| 21 years | $15,955 |
| 23 years | $19,141 |
| 25 years | $22,328 |
Top Solar Installers in Hartwell
Many homeowners decide to use a solar installation company since installing solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. Another good thing about using a reliable solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
If you're searching for a solar company in Hartwell, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Hartwell
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hartwell
Although the average cost of a solar system in Hartwell is $17,503, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Hartwell, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Hartwell homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you select will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 | $3.89 | $16,336 | $16,408 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $22,296 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $28,394 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $34,701 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $41,218 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $47,944 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $54,879 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $62,024 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, such as:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar panels, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
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 Hartwell, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hartwell?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Hartwell?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically 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.
Does Hartwell have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Hartwell?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.