Solar Panel Cost Guide in Robinson, IL (2024 Update)
- Robinson Solar Installation Cost: $16,442
- 25-Year Savings: $11,616
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Robinson
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Robinson.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Robinson it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Robinson is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,442 for a solar installation, or $23,512 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Robinson depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Robinson can save around $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
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 Robinson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,591 |
| 3 years | $-13,890 |
| 5 years | $-12,189 |
| 7 years | $-10,488 |
| 9 years | $-8,786 |
| 11 years | $-7,085 |
| 13 years | $-5,384 |
| 15 years | $-3,682 |
| 17 years | $-1,981 |
| 19 years | $-280 |
| 21 years | $1,422 |
| 23 years | $3,123 |
| 25 years | $4,824 |
Top Solar Installers in Robinson
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are often included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company too, which can save you more money over time.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Robinson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Robinson
Although the average cost of a solar system in Robinson is $16,442, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,760.The type of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Robinson, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Robinson, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Robinson know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 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 | $3.91 | $16,424 | $6,199 | 18.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $8,686 | 17.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $11,384 | 17.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $14,293 | 17.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $17,412 | 16.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $20,742 | 16.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $24,282 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $28,033 | 15.7 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from past customers.
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Robinson, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Robinson?
The average cost of solar panels in Robinson is about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Robinson?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Robinson, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Is it worth going solar in Robinson?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Robinson?
On average, solar panels can last 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 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.