Solar Panel Cost Guide in Central, LA (2025 Update)
- Central Solar Installation Cost: $26,607
- 25-Year Savings: $25,572
- Payback Period: 15.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Central
We go over average solar pricing in Central.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Central, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 10.0-kW system would cost about $26,607 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more.Despite the large initial cost, the average Central homeowner can save about $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installer in Central, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Central
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,265 |
| 3 years | $-22,582 |
| 5 years | $-19,899 |
| 7 years | $-17,216 |
| 9 years | $-14,533 |
| 11 years | $-11,850 |
| 13 years | $-9,167 |
| 15 years | $-6,483 |
| 17 years | $-3,800 |
| 19 years | $-1,117 |
| 21 years | $1,566 |
| 23 years | $4,249 |
| 25 years | $6,932 |
Top Solar Installers in Central
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Central
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Central
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Central is $26,607, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, 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 $3,800. The brand of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will greatly influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to make decisions about 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 into a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it’s vital to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panels can affect how much you pay. Central’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.95 | $16,598 | $9,535 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $13,138 | 15.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $16,955 | 15.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $20,985 | 15.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $25,227 | 14.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $29,682 | 14.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $34,350 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $39,230 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
EcoWatch's Central, LA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Central?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Central?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because 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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Central?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.