Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kingston, TN (2024 Update)

  • Kingston Solar Installation Cost: $19,694
  • 25-Year Savings: $11,921
  • Payback Period: 19.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 20, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Kingston

See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Kingston.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Kingston it’s 4 per watt.Because a 7.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Kingston, the average price of going solar will be about $19,694 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Despite the high initial cost, the average Kingston homeowner can save around $13,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Kingston

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-18,081
3 years$-14,853
5 years$-11,625
7 years$-8,397
9 years$-5,169
11 years$-1,941
13 years$1,287
15 years$4,515
17 years$7,743
19 years$10,971
21 years$14,199
23 years$17,426
25 years$20,654

Top Solar Installers in Kingston

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can benefit from and by providing warranties and repairs.

If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Kingston, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Kingston

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kingston

The cost of installing a solar system in Kingston can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Kingston, one of the most crucial 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 determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,580 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Kingston, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Kingston homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Kingston, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Kingston are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.72$15,637$3,92220.0 years
8 kW$3.65$20,449$5,63019.6 years
10 kW$3.58$25,060$7,53919.2 years
12 kW$3.51$29,471$9,64818.8 years
14 kW$3.44$33,681$11,95818.4 years
16 kW$3.37$37,690$14,46818.1 years
18 kW$3.29$41,499$17,17817.7 years
20 kW$3.22$45,108$20,08917.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies to choose from in Kingston, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Kingston, TN Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Kingston?

The average cost of solar panels in Kingston is about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Kingston?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of 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 financial benefits from going solar.

Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $651.97 per year.

How many solar panels do I need to power 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 usually 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.