Solar Panel Cost Guide in Columbia Heights, MN (2024 Update)
- Columbia Heights Solar Installation Cost: $20,251
- 25-Year Savings: $11,735
- Payback Period: 14.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Columbia Heights
We break down average solar pricing in Columbia Heights.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Columbia Heights it’s 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Columbia Heights, most homeowners require a 7.2-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $20,251, or $28,959 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you may look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in Columbia Heights for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Columbia Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,972 |
| 3 years | $-16,413 |
| 5 years | $-13,854 |
| 7 years | $-11,295 |
| 9 years | $-8,736 |
| 11 years | $-6,177 |
| 13 years | $-3,618 |
| 15 years | $-1,060 |
| 17 years | $1,499 |
| 19 years | $4,058 |
| 21 years | $6,617 |
| 23 years | $9,176 |
| 25 years | $11,735 |
Top Solar Installers in Columbia Heights
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar company since installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy usage, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
Working with a vetted solar company 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 Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
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 Columbia Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Columbia Heights
There are a number of criteria that can affect your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it’s a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Columbia Heights average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Columbia Heights provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s vital to include that in your estimate 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
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Columbia Heights, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Columbia Heights have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $4.19 | $17,603 | $12,307 | 14.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $16,860 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $21,640 | 14.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $26,645 | 13.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $31,875 | 13.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $37,332 | 13.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $43,014 | 13.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $48,921 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar panel system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-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 Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
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 Columbia Heights, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Columbia Heights?
The average cost of solar panels in Columbia Heights is about $20,150 for a 5-kW system and $40,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $996.99 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Columbia Heights?
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 after having 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.