Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bismarck, ND (2024 Update)

  • Bismarck Solar Installation Cost: $43,416
  • 25-Year Savings: $44,318
  • Payback Period: 14.7 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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 Bismarck

Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Bismarck.

In Bismarck, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average Bismarck homeowner needs a 17.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $43,416 with the federal tax credit, or $62,085 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs will look different based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average Bismarck homeowners see about $16,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in Bismarck for a personalized quote.

Solar savings over time in Bismarck

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-42,130
3 years$-39,559
5 years$-36,988
7 years$-34,417
9 years$-31,846
11 years$-29,275
13 years$-26,704
15 years$-24,133
17 years$-21,562
19 years$-18,990
21 years$-16,419
23 years$-13,848
25 years$-11,277

Top Solar Installers in Bismarck

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Another great thing about choosing a vetted solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Bismarck, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:

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See all of the solar companies in Bismarck

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bismarck

Although the average cost of a solar system in Bismarck is $43,416, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $3,580 per kilowatt in Bismarck.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far 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 a challenge. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Bismarck, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s wise to factor 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 the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Bismarck, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger 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 sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.72$15,637$9,87515.3 years
8 kW$3.65$20,449$13,56715.0 years
10 kW$3.58$25,060$17,46014.7 years
12 kW$3.51$29,471$21,55414.4 years
14 kW$3.44$33,681$25,84814.1 years
16 kW$3.37$37,690$30,34213.9 years
18 kW$3.29$41,499$35,03713.6 years
20 kW$3.22$45,108$39,93213.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • 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 quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to 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 if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies have different panels.
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EcoWatch's Bismarck, ND Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Bismarck?

This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Bismarck?

Solar panels aren’t free in Bismarck, 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 Bismarck?

Each state has some kind 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 offer you credit toward your future utility bills.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

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 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.