Solar Panel Cost Guide in Eldridge, IA (2024 Update)

  • Eldridge Solar Installation Cost: $27,096
  • 25-Year Savings: $22,376
  • Payback Period: 16.5 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Eldridge

Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Eldridge.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Eldridge is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Eldridge is around 9.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $27,096 for a solar installation, or $38,747 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Even with the high initial cost, the average Eldridge homeowner can save about $16,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.

For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Eldridge

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-25,379
3 years $-21,946
5 years $-18,513
7 years $-15,080
9 years $-11,647
11 years $-8,214
13 years $-4,781
15 years $-1,348
17 years $2,085
19 years $5,518
21 years $8,951
23 years $12,384
25 years $15,817

Top Solar Installers in Eldridge

Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since trying to install solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Eldridge, optimizing your ROI.

You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

See all of the solar companies in Eldridge

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Eldridge

There are many criteria 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 installs your solar panels.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, 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

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Eldridge, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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’re only able to 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 finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Eldridge, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Eldridge have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 $4.17 $17,516 $8,027 17.1 years
8 kW $4.09 $22,905 $11,151 16.8 years
10 kW $4.01 $28,070 $14,500 16.5 years
12 kW $3.93 $33,010 $18,074 16.2 years
14 kW $3.85 $37,726 $21,872 15.8 years
16 kW $3.77 $42,217 $25,895 15.5 years
18 kW $3.69 $46,484 $30,143 15.2 years
20 kW $3.61 $50,526 $34,615 14.8 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Eldridge, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before making your decision.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's Eldridge, IA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Eldridge?

The average cost of solar panels in Eldridge is about $20,050 for a 5-kW system and $40,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Are solar panels free in Eldridge?

Solar panels aren’t free in Eldridge, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Eldridge?

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 electricity bills.

How long do solar panels last in Eldridge?

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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt 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.

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