Solar Panel Cost Guide in Waycross, GA (2024 Update)
- Waycross Solar Installation Cost: $16,764
- 25-Year Savings: $23,916
- Payback Period: 11.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Waycross
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Waycross.
In Waycross, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Waycross, most homeowners require a 6.4-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $16,764, or $23,973 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Waycross homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the high upfront cost, the average Waycross homeowner can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Waycross
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,171 |
| 3 years | $-11,984 |
| 5 years | $-8,798 |
| 7 years | $-5,611 |
| 9 years | $-2,425 |
| 11 years | $762 |
| 13 years | $3,948 |
| 15 years | $7,135 |
| 17 years | $10,321 |
| 19 years | $13,508 |
| 21 years | $16,694 |
| 23 years | $19,881 |
| 25 years | $23,067 |
Top Solar Installers in Waycross
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, using a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Waycross, we've organized 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 Waycross
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Waycross
There are many factors that can play into your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $3,740. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Waycross have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Waycross, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger 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 | $16,783 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $22,797 | 12.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $29,020 | 11.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $35,452 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $42,094 | 11.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $48,945 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $56,005 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $63,275 | 10.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will impact not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable 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.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
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 Waycross, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Waycross?
The average cost of solar panels in Waycross is about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Waycross have a net metering program?
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 give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 amount 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.