Solar Panel Cost Guide in Elsa, TX (2024 Update)
- Elsa Solar Installation Cost: $16,573
- 25-Year Savings: $17,670
- Payback Period: 13.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Elsa
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Elsa.
The average cost of solar panels in Elsa is 3 per watt.Because a 7.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Elsa, the average price of going solar will be about $16,573 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 true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Elsa can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Elsa that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Elsa
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,151 |
| 3 years | $-12,309 |
| 5 years | $-9,467 |
| 7 years | $-6,625 |
| 9 years | $-3,783 |
| 11 years | $-941 |
| 13 years | $1,901 |
| 15 years | $4,744 |
| 17 years | $7,586 |
| 19 years | $10,428 |
| 21 years | $13,270 |
| 23 years | $16,112 |
| 25 years | $18,954 |
Top Solar Installers in Elsa
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also offer access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for your family.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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 Elsa
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Elsa
For many Elsa homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Elsa, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,330. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Elsa to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time because of interest.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Elsa homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. 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
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar system can affect your pricing. Elsa’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Elsa have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $11,665 | 13.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $15,926 | 13.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $20,374 | 13.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $25,008 | 13.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $29,829 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $34,836 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $40,030 | 12.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $45,410 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
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 Elsa, TX Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Elsa?
The average cost of solar panels in Elsa is about $16,650 for a 5-kW system and $33,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Elsa?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Elsa. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How will solar panels impact the value of my home?
Solar panels can increase your home value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t opt for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.