Solar Panel Cost Guide in Big Sioux, SD (2024 Update)
- Big Sioux Solar Installation Cost: $22,074
- 25-Year Savings: $21,012
- Payback Period: 15.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Big Sioux
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Big Sioux.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Big Sioux typically cost about 4.The average solar panel system size in Big Sioux is around 8.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $22,074 for a solar installation, or $31,566 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs may differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Big Sioux
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-21,085 |
| 3 years | $-19,107 |
| 5 years | $-17,129 |
| 7 years | $-15,151 |
| 9 years | $-13,173 |
| 11 years | $-11,195 |
| 13 years | $-9,217 |
| 15 years | $-7,239 |
| 17 years | $-5,260 |
| 19 years | $-3,282 |
| 21 years | $-1,304 |
| 23 years | $674 |
| 25 years | $2,652 |
Top Solar Installers in Big Sioux
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and handiness. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, going with a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives.
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 in Big Sioux:
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 Big Sioux
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Big Sioux
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Big Sioux: 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 significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,580 per kilowatt in Big Sioux.The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose 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 over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Big Sioux average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Big Sioux homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. 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
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Big Sioux, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $8,713 | 16.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $12,018 | 15.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $15,524 | 15.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $19,230 | 15.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $23,136 | 14.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $27,243 | 14.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $31,551 | 14.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $36,059 | 13.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose greatly affects 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:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from past customers.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Big Sioux, SD Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Big Sioux?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Big Sioux?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Is going solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 get 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.