Solar Panel Cost Guide in Umatilla, OR (2024 Update)
- Umatilla Solar Installation Cost: $9,982
- 25-Year Savings: $14,876
- Payback Period: 11.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Umatilla
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Umatilla.
The average cost of a solar system in Umatilla is 4 per watt.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Umatilla, most homeowners require a 4.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $9,982, or $14,274 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Umatilla
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,773 |
| 3 years | $-6,354 |
| 5 years | $-3,936 |
| 7 years | $-1,517 |
| 9 years | $902 |
| 11 years | $3,320 |
| 13 years | $5,739 |
| 15 years | $8,157 |
| 17 years | $10,576 |
| 19 years | $12,995 |
| 21 years | $15,413 |
| 23 years | $17,832 |
| 25 years | $20,251 |
Top Solar Installers in Umatilla
Installing solar panels on your own can be a dangerous project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Umatilla, thereby optimizing your ROI.
If you're searching for a solar company in Umatilla, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Umatilla
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Umatilla
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Umatilla: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Umatilla, one of the most important 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 usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,500 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. 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
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Umatilla, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.64 | $15,288 | $17,797 | 11.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.57 | $19,992 | $24,122 | 11.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.50 | $24,500 | $30,642 | 11.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.43 | $28,812 | $37,359 | 10.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.36 | $32,928 | $44,271 | 10.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.29 | $36,848 | $51,380 | 10.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.22 | $40,572 | $58,684 | 10.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.15 | $44,100 | $66,185 | 10.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
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 Umatilla, OR Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Umatilla?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,500 for a 5-kW system and $35,000 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 higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Umatilla?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots 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 many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much 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 account for 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.