Solar Panel Cost Guide in Duluth, MN (2024 Update)
- Duluth Solar Installation Cost: $21,487
- 25-Year Savings: $16,625
- Payback Period: 16.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Duluth
We go over average solar pricing in Duluth.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Duluth is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $21,487 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Duluth based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Duluth
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,419 |
| 3 years | $-18,282 |
| 5 years | $-16,145 |
| 7 years | $-14,008 |
| 9 years | $-11,871 |
| 11 years | $-9,734 |
| 13 years | $-7,598 |
| 15 years | $-5,461 |
| 17 years | $-3,324 |
| 19 years | $-1,187 |
| 21 years | $950 |
| 23 years | $3,087 |
| 25 years | $5,224 |
Top Solar Installers in Duluth
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners choose to hire a solar company since putting up a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, using a solar installer 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 work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Duluth:
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 Duluth
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Duluth
There are a number of criteria that can affect your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
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. For that reason, it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Duluth average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Duluth, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Duluth, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $7,421 | 17.6 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $10,346 | 17.2 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $13,496 | 16.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $16,872 | 16.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $20,474 | 16.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $24,302 | 15.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $28,355 | 15.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $32,634 | 15.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will impact not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, including:
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a high 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.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
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 Duluth, MN Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Duluth?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,150 for a 5-kW system and $40,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Duluth?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Duluth. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Duluth, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for 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 many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 household 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.