Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fredericksburg, VA (2024 Update)
- Fredericksburg Solar Installation Cost: $20,041
- 25-Year Savings: $21,147
- Payback Period: 13.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fredericksburg
Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Fredericksburg.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Fredericksburg typically cost about 4.The average Fredericksburg homeowner needs a 8.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $20,041 with the federal tax credit, or $28,659 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Fredericksburg based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Fredericksburg homeowner can save about $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar company in Fredericksburg, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Fredericksburg
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-18,452 |
3 years | $-15,273 |
5 years | $-12,094 |
7 years | $-8,916 |
9 years | $-5,737 |
11 years | $-2,558 |
13 years | $621 |
15 years | $3,799 |
17 years | $6,978 |
19 years | $10,157 |
21 years | $13,336 |
23 years | $16,514 |
25 years | $19,693 |
Top Solar Installers in Fredericksburg
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and lower the cost of maintenance over time.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Fredericksburg, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Fredericksburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fredericksburg
There are several factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Fredericksburg, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,590 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Fredericksburg 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 APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Fredericksburg have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage 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 | $3.73 | $15,681 | $11,779 | 14.3 years |
8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $16,107 | 14.0 years |
10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $20,636 | 13.7 years |
12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $25,367 | 13.5 years |
14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $30,298 | 13.2 years |
16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $35,430 | 12.9 years |
18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $40,764 | 12.6 years |
20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $46,298 | 12.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you’d like to install plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating 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.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Fredericksburg, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Fredericksburg?
The average cost of solar panels in Fredericksburg is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 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.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires 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.