Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gastonia, NC (2024 Update)
- Gastonia Solar Installation Cost: $16,736
- 25-Year Savings: $20,368
- Payback Period: 12.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gastonia
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Gastonia.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Gastonia generally cost around 4.The average Gastonia homeowner needs a 6.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,736 with the federal tax credit, or $23,932 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Gastonia homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Gastonia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,414 |
| 3 years | $-12,770 |
| 5 years | $-10,125 |
| 7 years | $-7,481 |
| 9 years | $-4,837 |
| 11 years | $-2,193 |
| 13 years | $452 |
| 15 years | $3,096 |
| 17 years | $5,740 |
| 19 years | $8,384 |
| 21 years | $11,029 |
| 23 years | $13,673 |
| 25 years | $16,317 |
Top Solar Installers in Gastonia
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your location and energy usage, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Gastonia, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Gastonia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gastonia
There are a number of criteria that can determine your solar system 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
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Gastonia, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,510 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Gastonia homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Gastonia, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.65 | $15,332 | $13,277 | 13.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.58 | $20,049 | $18,096 | 13.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.51 | $24,570 | $23,112 | 12.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.44 | $28,894 | $28,324 | 12.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.37 | $33,022 | $33,733 | 12.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.30 | $36,953 | $39,338 | 12.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.23 | $40,688 | $45,139 | 11.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.16 | $44,226 | $51,138 | 11.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Outstanding Regional Installer
Renu Energy Solutions
- Excellent reputation
- Many financing options
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Gastonia, NC Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Gastonia?
The average cost of solar panels in Gastonia is about $17,550 for a 5-kW system and $35,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Gastonia?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.