Solar Panel Cost Guide in Suffolk, VA (2024 Update)
- Suffolk Solar Installation Cost: $19,006
- 25-Year Savings: $21,058
- Payback Period: 13.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Suffolk
Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Suffolk.
The average cost of solar panels in Suffolk is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Suffolk is around 7.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $19,006 for a solar installation, or $27,179 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Suffolk depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $18,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Suffolk
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,407 |
| 3 years | $-14,210 |
| 5 years | $-11,012 |
| 7 years | $-7,814 |
| 9 years | $-4,616 |
| 11 years | $-1,418 |
| 13 years | $1,780 |
| 15 years | $4,978 |
| 17 years | $8,176 |
| 19 years | $11,373 |
| 21 years | $14,571 |
| 23 years | $17,769 |
| 25 years | $20,967 |
Top Solar Installers in Suffolk
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, if you’re not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Suffolk
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Suffolk
For many Suffolk homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Suffolk, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,590.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a solid route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Suffolk, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $12,574 | 13.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $17,168 | 13.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $21,962 | 13.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $26,958 | 13.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $32,155 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $37,552 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $43,151 | 12.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $48,951 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will impact not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Suffolk, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Suffolk?
The average cost of solar panels in Suffolk 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 things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Suffolk?
Solar panels aren’t free in Suffolk, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Suffolk have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.