Solar Panel Cost Guide in Travelers Rest, SC (2024 Update)

  • Travelers Rest Solar Installation Cost: $19,500
  • 25-Year Savings: $27,257
  • Payback Period: 11.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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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 Travelers Rest

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Travelers Rest.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Travelers Rest generally cost about 3.The average Travelers Rest homeowner needs a 8.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,500 with the federal tax credit, or $27,885 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Travelers Rest can save about $20,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Travelers Rest

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-18,015
3 years $-15,044
5 years $-12,074
7 years $-9,103
9 years $-6,133
11 years $-3,162
13 years $-192
15 years $2,779
17 years $5,749
19 years $8,720
21 years $11,691
23 years $14,661
25 years $17,632

Top Solar Installers in Travelers Rest

When going solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installation company since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.

Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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 Travelers Rest

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Travelers Rest

For many Travelers Rest homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Travelers Rest, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,450.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Travelers Rest average.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.Although solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Travelers Rest homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you pick will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $3.59 $15,070 $16,608 11.9 years
8 kW $3.52 $19,706 $22,531 11.7 years
10 kW $3.45 $24,150 $28,646 11.4 years
12 kW $3.38 $28,400 $34,955 11.2 years
14 kW $3.31 $32,458 $41,457 11.0 years
16 kW $3.24 $36,322 $48,153 10.7 years
18 kW $3.17 $39,992 $55,041 10.5 years
20 kW $3.11 $43,470 $62,123 10.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar energy system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.

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 Travelers Rest, SC Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Travelers Rest?

This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,250 for a 5-kW system and $34,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other 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 efficient solar panels.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Travelers Rest?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.

How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?

It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Travelers Rest, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of 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.

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