Solar Panel Cost Guide in Malmstrom AFB, MT (2024 Update)
- Malmstrom AFB Solar Installation Cost: $42,536
- 25-Year Savings: $21,820
- Payback Period: 20.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Malmstrom AFB
We break down average solar pricing in Malmstrom AFB.
The average cost of a solar system in Malmstrom AFB is 3 per watt.Because a 17.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Malmstrom AFB, the average price of going solar will be about $42,536 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Malmstrom AFB homeowners see about $12,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Malmstrom AFB for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Malmstrom AFB
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-41,263 |
| 3 years | $-38,718 |
| 5 years | $-36,173 |
| 7 years | $-33,628 |
| 9 years | $-31,083 |
| 11 years | $-28,537 |
| 13 years | $-25,992 |
| 15 years | $-23,447 |
| 17 years | $-20,902 |
| 19 years | $-18,357 |
| 21 years | $-15,812 |
| 23 years | $-13,267 |
| 25 years | $-10,721 |
Top Solar Installers in Malmstrom AFB
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels yourself can be challenging. Companies can also have access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your family.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Malmstrom AFB
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Malmstrom AFB
For many Malmstrom AFB homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Malmstrom AFB, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,470. 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 choose 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 power bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Malmstrom AFB average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.It’s wise to add 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panels can impact how much you pay. Malmstrom AFB’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Malmstrom AFB are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $2,987 | 20.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $4,371 | 20.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $5,950 | 20.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $7,723 | 19.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $9,690 | 19.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $11,852 | 18.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $14,207 | 18.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $16,758 | 18.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Malmstrom AFB, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar panel system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over completely 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.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
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 Malmstrom AFB, MT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Malmstrom AFB?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want other 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 opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Malmstrom AFB have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Malmstrom AFB?
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.