Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mebane, NC (2024 Update)
- Mebane Solar Installation Cost: $17,116
- 25-Year Savings: $20,650
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mebane
We break down average solar pricing in Mebane.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Mebane, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Mebane, most homeowners require a 7.0-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $17,116, or $24,476 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you may vary based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $18,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Mebane
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,745 |
| 3 years | $-13,001 |
| 5 years | $-10,257 |
| 7 years | $-7,514 |
| 9 years | $-4,770 |
| 11 years | $-2,027 |
| 13 years | $717 |
| 15 years | $3,460 |
| 17 years | $6,204 |
| 19 years | $8,947 |
| 21 years | $11,691 |
| 23 years | $14,435 |
| 25 years | $17,178 |
Top Solar Installers in Mebane
When going solar, many homeowners opt to go with a solar company since installing a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Local solar installers can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Mebane
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mebane
The cost of installing a solar system in Mebane can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel 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 nearly $3,510. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.It’s a good idea to add 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 back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Mebane, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Mebane have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $3.65 | $15,332 | $13,122 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.58 | $20,049 | $17,889 | 13.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.51 | $24,570 | $22,853 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.44 | $28,894 | $28,013 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.37 | $33,022 | $33,370 | 12.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.30 | $36,953 | $38,923 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.23 | $40,688 | $44,673 | 11.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.16 | $44,226 | $50,619 | 11.7 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 models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you want to get plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, 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 the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Mebane, NC Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mebane?
This is a difficult 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. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about 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 Mebane 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 offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.