Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jefferson, LA (2024 Update)
- Jefferson Solar Installation Cost: $26,349
- 25-Year Savings: $26,929
- Payback Period: 14.7 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jefferson
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Jefferson.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Jefferson, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.9-kW system would cost about $26,349 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.With average savings of about $17,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Jefferson find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installation company in Jefferson, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Jefferson
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-25,040 |
3 years | $-22,422 |
5 years | $-19,803 |
7 years | $-17,185 |
9 years | $-14,566 |
11 years | $-11,948 |
13 years | $-9,329 |
15 years | $-6,710 |
17 years | $-4,092 |
19 years | $-1,473 |
21 years | $1,145 |
23 years | $3,764 |
25 years | $6,382 |
Top Solar Installers in Jefferson
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for you.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations 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 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 Jefferson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jefferson
For many Jefferson homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Jefferson, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,800.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Jefferson have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Jefferson are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $3.95 | $16,598 | $10,506 | 15.3 years |
8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $14,434 | 15.0 years |
10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $18,574 | 14.7 years |
12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $22,928 | 14.4 years |
14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $27,494 | 14.1 years |
16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $32,272 | 13.8 years |
18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $37,264 | 13.5 years |
20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $42,469 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: When reading through your solar company’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Jefferson, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Jefferson?
The average cost of solar panels in Jefferson is about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Do solar panels increase your home value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Jefferson is currently $228,375, which means you can expect a value of about $9,363 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Jefferson is a worthwhile investment.
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 requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.