Solar Panel Cost Guide in Valparaiso, IN (2024 Update)
- Valparaiso Solar Installation Cost: $25,646
- 25-Year Savings: $28,528
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Valparaiso
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Valparaiso.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Valparaiso typically cost around 4.The average Valparaiso homeowner needs a 8.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $25,646 with the federal tax credit, or $36,674 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Valparaiso homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With typical savings of about $19,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Valparaiso find installing solar panels can be quite rewarding.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in Valparaiso for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Valparaiso
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-23,927 |
| 3 years | $-20,487 |
| 5 years | $-17,048 |
| 7 years | $-13,608 |
| 9 years | $-10,169 |
| 11 years | $-6,729 |
| 13 years | $-3,290 |
| 15 years | $149 |
| 17 years | $3,589 |
| 19 years | $7,028 |
| 21 years | $10,468 |
| 23 years | $13,907 |
| 25 years | $17,347 |
Top Solar Installers in Valparaiso
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners choose to use a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. Plus, if you’re not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar panel installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Valparaiso:
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 Valparaiso
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Valparaiso
Although the average cost of a solar system in Valparaiso is $25,646, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Valparaiso, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $4,100 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install 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
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a part in determining the cost. Valparaiso’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.26 | $17,909 | $12,502 | 14.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.18 | $23,419 | $17,128 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.10 | $28,700 | $21,984 | 14.2 years |
| 12 kW | $4.02 | $33,751 | $27,070 | 13.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.94 | $38,573 | $32,385 | 13.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.85 | $43,165 | $37,930 | 13.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.77 | $47,527 | $43,705 | 13.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.69 | $51,660 | $49,709 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will influence not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 Valparaiso, IN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Valparaiso?
The average cost of solar panels in Valparaiso is about $20,500 for a 5-kW system and $41,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Valparaiso?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.