Solar Panel Cost Guide in Norfolk, NE (2024 Update)
- Norfolk Solar Installation Cost: $23,903
- 25-Year Savings: $19,696
- Payback Period: 15.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Norfolk
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Norfolk.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Norfolk it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Norfolk is around 9.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $23,903 for a solar installation, or $34,181 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs will differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with.Despite the high initial cost, the average Norfolk homeowner can save about $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Norfolk
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-22,732 |
| 3 years | $-20,391 |
| 5 years | $-18,049 |
| 7 years | $-15,707 |
| 9 years | $-13,365 |
| 11 years | $-11,024 |
| 13 years | $-8,682 |
| 15 years | $-6,340 |
| 17 years | $-3,998 |
| 19 years | $-1,657 |
| 21 years | $685 |
| 23 years | $3,027 |
| 25 years | $5,369 |
Top Solar Installers in Norfolk
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to use a solar company since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 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 Norfolk
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Norfolk
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Norfolk: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important 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 electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,580 per kilowatt in Norfolk.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Norfolk to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more on your 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 clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Norfolk, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.72 | $15,637 | $8,638 | 16.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $11,918 | 15.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $15,398 | 15.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $19,080 | 15.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $22,961 | 14.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $27,043 | 14.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $31,326 | 14.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $35,809 | 13.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will influence not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you want to install plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
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 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 Norfolk, NE Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Norfolk?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key 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 keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Norfolk 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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 level 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.