Solar Panel Cost Guide in Athens, TX (2024 Update)
- Athens Solar Installation Cost: $17,962
- 25-Year Savings: $26,279
- Payback Period: 11.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Athens
We break down average solar pricing in Athens.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Athens, the average cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.The average Athens homeowner needs a 7.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,962 with the federal tax credit, or $25,686 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will most likely vary based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with.With typical savings of about $20,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Athens find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Athens
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,487 |
| 3 years | $-13,537 |
| 5 years | $-10,587 |
| 7 years | $-7,637 |
| 9 years | $-4,687 |
| 11 years | $-1,737 |
| 13 years | $1,213 |
| 15 years | $4,163 |
| 17 years | $7,113 |
| 19 years | $10,063 |
| 21 years | $13,013 |
| 23 years | $15,963 |
| 25 years | $18,913 |
Top Solar Installers in Athens
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's why almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Athens
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Athens
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Athens: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Athens, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,330 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Athens have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.It’s a good idea to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Athens is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you’ll have many options for solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs.Additionally, some companies in Athens know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $3.46 | $14,545 | $17,215 | 11.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $23,326 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $29,623 | 11.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $36,107 | 10.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $42,778 | 10.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $49,635 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $56,679 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $63,909 | 9.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Athens, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Athens?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $16,650 for a 5-kW system and $33,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra 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 expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Athens?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it typically 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 maximize your savings.
Does Athens have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
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 average daily 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 cover 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.