Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kalispell, MT (2024 Update)
- Kalispell Solar Installation Cost: $44,018
- 25-Year Savings: $29,408
- Payback Period: 17.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Kalispell
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Kalispell.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Kalispell, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Kalispell is around 18.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $44,018 for a solar installation, or $62,946 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Kalispell homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the high upfront cost, the average Kalispell homeowner can save about $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Kalispell
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-43,017 |
| 3 years | $-41,014 |
| 5 years | $-39,011 |
| 7 years | $-37,008 |
| 9 years | $-35,005 |
| 11 years | $-33,002 |
| 13 years | $-30,999 |
| 15 years | $-28,996 |
| 17 years | $-26,993 |
| 19 years | $-24,990 |
| 21 years | $-22,987 |
| 23 years | $-20,984 |
| 25 years | $-18,982 |
Top Solar Installers in Kalispell
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since installing solar panels by yourself can be challenging. Because solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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 Kalispell
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kalispell
While the average cost of a solar system in Kalispell is $44,018, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
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 with higher 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 $3,470.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Kalispell, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Kalispell offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining your pricing. Kalispell’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.61 | $15,157 | $5,248 | 18.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $7,386 | 18.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $9,718 | 17.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $12,244 | 17.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $14,965 | 17.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $17,880 | 16.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $20,990 | 16.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $24,293 | 16.1 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 picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
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 Kalispell, MT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Kalispell?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Kalispell?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location 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 $680.15 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually 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.