Solar Panel Cost Guide in Scenic Oaks, TX (2024 Update)
- Scenic Oaks Solar Installation Cost: $17,467
- 25-Year Savings: $22,906
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Scenic Oaks
We break down average solar pricing in Scenic Oaks.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Scenic Oaks it’s 3 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Scenic Oaks is around 7.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,467 for a solar installation, or $24,978 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Scenic Oaks homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Scenic Oaks homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To get a free estimate from a highly rated solar company in Scenic Oaks, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Scenic Oaks
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,048 |
| 3 years | $-13,209 |
| 5 years | $-10,371 |
| 7 years | $-7,532 |
| 9 years | $-4,694 |
| 11 years | $-1,856 |
| 13 years | $983 |
| 15 years | $3,821 |
| 17 years | $6,660 |
| 19 years | $9,498 |
| 21 years | $12,337 |
| 23 years | $15,175 |
| 25 years | $18,013 |
Top Solar Installers in Scenic Oaks
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and expertise. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar company as well, which can save you more money after your initial investment.
If you're searching for a solar company in Scenic Oaks, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Scenic Oaks
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Scenic Oaks
The cost of installing a solar system in Scenic Oaks 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 the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $3,330 per kilowatt in Scenic Oaks.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a solid route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Scenic Oaks homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting 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 vehicle 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 | $3.46 | $14,545 | $15,093 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $20,497 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $26,088 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $31,865 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $37,828 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $43,978 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $50,315 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $56,838 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
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 Scenic Oaks, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Scenic Oaks?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $16,650 for a 5-kW system and $33,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Scenic Oaks?
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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location 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 $987.96 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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 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.