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

  • Trenton Solar Installation Cost: $19,640
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,778
  • Payback Period: 17.9 Years

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By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 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 Trenton

Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Trenton.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Trenton, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Trenton is around 7.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $19,640 for a solar installation, or $28,085 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average Trenton homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Trenton for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Trenton

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-18,000
3 years$-14,721
5 years$-11,441
7 years$-8,162
9 years$-4,883
11 years$-1,603
13 years$1,676
15 years$4,956
17 years$8,235
19 years$11,515
21 years$14,794
23 years$18,074
25 years$21,353

Top Solar Installers in Trenton

Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be challenging. Local solar companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.

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

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 Trenton

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Trenton

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Trenton is $19,640, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $3,580. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In general, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only 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 a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Trenton homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Trenton, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.You may notice 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 promotions to compete with those larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.72$15,637$5,36918.6 years
8 kW$3.65$20,449$7,55918.3 years
10 kW$3.58$25,060$9,95017.9 years
12 kW$3.51$29,471$12,54217.5 years
14 kW$3.44$33,681$15,33417.2 years
16 kW$3.37$37,690$18,32616.8 years
18 kW$3.29$41,499$21,51916.5 years
20 kW$3.22$45,108$24,91216.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts 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: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
  • Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.

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 Trenton, TN Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Trenton 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 like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Trenton?

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 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 savings from going solar.

How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?

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 $700.20 per year.

How many solar panels should I get to power 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 install 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.