Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kernersville, NC (2024 Update)

  • Kernersville Solar Installation Cost: $17,133
  • 25-Year Savings: $18,270
  • Payback Period: 14.0 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Kernersville

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Kernersville.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Kernersville generally cost about 4.Because a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Kernersville, the average price of going solar will be about $17,133 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Kernersville homeowners. The cost 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.Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Kernersville can save around $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a customized estimate.

Solar savings over time in Kernersville

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-15,811
3 years$-13,166
5 years$-10,522
7 years$-7,878
9 years$-5,234
11 years$-2,589
13 years$55
15 years$2,699
17 years$5,343
19 years$7,988
21 years$10,632
23 years$13,276
25 years$15,920

Top Solar Installers in Kernersville

Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a dangerous project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money after your initial investment.

If you're searching for a solar company in Kernersville, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • 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

★★★★★
4.5
  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Outstanding Regional Installer

Renu Energy Solutions

★★★★★
4.5
  • Excellent reputation
  • Many financing options
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Kernersville

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kernersville

The cost of installing a solar system in Kernersville can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 $3,510. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install 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

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Kernersville, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.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 specials to compete with those larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.65$15,332$11,05614.5 years
8 kW$3.58$20,049$15,13514.2 years
10 kW$3.51$24,570$19,41014.0 years
12 kW$3.44$28,894$23,88213.7 years
14 kW$3.37$33,022$28,55013.4 years
16 kW$3.30$36,953$33,41513.1 years
18 kW$3.23$40,688$38,47612.8 years
20 kW$3.16$44,226$43,73412.6 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies available in Kernersville, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • 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

★★★★★
4.5
  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Outstanding Regional Installer

Renu Energy Solutions

★★★★★
4.5
  • Excellent reputation
  • Many financing options
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Kernersville, NC Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Kernersville?

This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,550 for a 5-kW system and $35,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Kernersville?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Kernersville, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Kernersville?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.