Solar Panel Cost Guide in Zachary, LA (2024 Update)
- Zachary Solar Installation Cost: $26,631
- 25-Year Savings: $7,714
- Payback Period: 14.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Zachary
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Zachary.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Zachary typically cost about 4.The average solar panel system size in Zachary is around 10.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $26,631 for a solar installation, or $38,082 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will look different based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Zachary can save about $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Zachary
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-25,257 |
| 3 years | $-22,510 |
| 5 years | $-19,762 |
| 7 years | $-17,015 |
| 9 years | $-14,267 |
| 11 years | $-11,519 |
| 13 years | $-8,772 |
| 15 years | $-6,024 |
| 17 years | $-3,276 |
| 19 years | $-529 |
| 21 years | $2,219 |
| 23 years | $4,967 |
| 25 years | $7,714 |
Top Solar Installers in Zachary
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and expertise. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some 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 Zachary
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Zachary
The cost of installing a solar system in Zachary can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation use 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 $3,800.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Zachary homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s important to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Zachary, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $10,665 | 15.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.88 | $21,706 | $14,646 | 14.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.80 | $26,600 | $18,840 | 14.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.72 | $31,282 | $23,246 | 14.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.65 | $35,750 | $27,865 | 14.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.57 | $40,006 | $32,697 | 13.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.50 | $44,050 | $37,742 | 13.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.42 | $47,880 | $43,000 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably influences your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- 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 such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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 Zachary, LA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Zachary?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive 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 expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Zachary?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Zachary, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Zachary?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.