Solar Panel Cost Guide in Loch Lomond, VA (2024 Update)
- Loch Lomond Solar Installation Cost: $20,044
- 25-Year Savings: $19,770
- Payback Period: 14.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Loch Lomond
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Loch Lomond.
In Loch Lomond, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 8.0-kW system would cost about $20,044 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Loch Lomond
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,445 |
| 3 years | $-15,247 |
| 5 years | $-12,049 |
| 7 years | $-8,851 |
| 9 years | $-5,653 |
| 11 years | $-2,455 |
| 13 years | $743 |
| 15 years | $3,941 |
| 17 years | $7,138 |
| 19 years | $10,336 |
| 21 years | $13,534 |
| 23 years | $16,732 |
| 25 years | $19,930 |
Top Solar Installers in Loch Lomond
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a stressful task, which is why using a solar installer 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.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain 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 Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Loch Lomond
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Loch Lomond
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Loch Lomond: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
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 uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,590 per kilowatt in Loch Lomond.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Loch Lomond, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Loch Lomond to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest.It’s wise 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 how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $10,741 | 14.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $14,724 | 14.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $18,907 | 14.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $23,292 | 14.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $27,877 | 13.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $32,664 | 13.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $37,651 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $42,840 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: Long-running companies 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: It’s important to read your solar installer’s contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
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 Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Loch Lomond, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Loch Lomond?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Loch Lomond?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Does Loch Lomond have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power 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 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.