Solar Panel Cost Guide in Oak Park Heights, MN (2024 Update)
- Oak Park Heights Solar Installation Cost: $20,370
- 25-Year Savings: $21,431
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Oak Park Heights
See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Oak Park Heights.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Oak Park Heights, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Since a 7.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Oak Park Heights, the average price of going solar will be about $20,370 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you will vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Oak Park Heights homeowner can save about $19,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Oak Park Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,090 |
| 3 years | $-16,531 |
| 5 years | $-13,973 |
| 7 years | $-11,414 |
| 9 years | $-8,855 |
| 11 years | $-6,296 |
| 13 years | $-3,737 |
| 15 years | $-1,178 |
| 17 years | $1,381 |
| 19 years | $3,940 |
| 21 years | $6,499 |
| 23 years | $9,058 |
| 25 years | $11,616 |
Top Solar Installers in Oak Park Heights
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Oak Park Heights, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Oak Park Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Oak Park Heights
There are many criteria that can play into your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Oak Park Heights, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $4,030 for each additional kilowatt you need.The kind 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, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Oak Park Heights average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can play a role in determining how much you pay. Oak Park Heights’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Oak Park Heights have more knowledge 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 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 | $12,133 | 14.8 years |
| 8 kW | $4.11 | $23,019 | $16,628 | 14.5 years |
| 10 kW | $4.03 | $28,210 | $21,350 | 14.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.95 | $33,175 | $26,297 | 13.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.87 | $37,914 | $31,469 | 13.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.79 | $42,428 | $36,867 | 13.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.71 | $46,716 | $42,491 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.63 | $50,778 | $48,341 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model 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.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
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 Oak Park Heights, MN Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Oak Park Heights?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Oak Park Heights?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Oak Park Heights have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level 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.