Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chalmette, LA (2024 Update)
- Chalmette Solar Installation Cost: $26,333
- 25-Year Savings: $26,940
- Payback Period: 14.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chalmette
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Chalmette.
In Chalmette, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Chalmette is around 9.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $26,333 for a solar installation, or $37,656 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you may look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in Chalmette for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Chalmette
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,024 |
| 3 years | $-22,405 |
| 5 years | $-19,787 |
| 7 years | $-17,168 |
| 9 years | $-14,550 |
| 11 years | $-11,931 |
| 13 years | $-9,313 |
| 15 years | $-6,694 |
| 17 years | $-4,076 |
| 19 years | $-1,457 |
| 21 years | $1,161 |
| 23 years | $3,780 |
| 25 years | $6,399 |
Top Solar Installers in Chalmette
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and expertise. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 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 Chalmette
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chalmette
The cost of installing a solar system in Chalmette can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. 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 average energy use.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Chalmette, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Chalmette homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can impact your pricing. Chalmette’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 undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $3.95 | $16,598 | $10,523 | 15.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $14,456 | 15.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $18,602 | 14.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $22,961 | 14.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $27,533 | 14.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $32,317 | 13.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $37,314 | 13.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $42,524 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, such as:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can look into your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 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 Chalmette, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chalmette?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Chalmette?
Even though 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 choose to replace them once you've had 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.