Solar Panel Cost Guide in Belle Fourche, SD (2024 Update)
- Belle Fourche Solar Installation Cost: $21,449
- 25-Year Savings: $29,963
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Belle Fourche
We go over average solar pricing in Belle Fourche.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Belle Fourche, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Belle Fourche homeowner needs a 8.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $21,449 with the federal tax credit, or $30,672 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Belle Fourche that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Belle Fourche
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,813 |
| 3 years | $-16,543 |
| 5 years | $-13,272 |
| 7 years | $-10,001 |
| 9 years | $-6,731 |
| 11 years | $-3,460 |
| 13 years | $-189 |
| 15 years | $3,081 |
| 17 years | $6,352 |
| 19 years | $9,622 |
| 21 years | $12,893 |
| 23 years | $16,164 |
| 25 years | $19,434 |
Top Solar Installers in Belle Fourche
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your location and energy needs, but working with a solar installer can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Belle Fourche
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Belle Fourche
Although the average cost of a solar system in Belle Fourche is $21,449, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Belle Fourche, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Belle Fourche, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.Though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Belle Fourche homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Belle Fourche is the company you hire to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.Additionally, some companies in Belle Fourche have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $3.72 | $15,637 | $15,405 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $20,941 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $26,678 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $32,615 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $38,752 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $45,090 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $51,629 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $58,368 | 10.9 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 efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar panels, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you opt for.
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 Belle Fourche, SD Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Belle Fourche?
The average cost of solar panels in Belle Fourche is about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Belle Fourche?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.