Solar Panel Cost Guide in Waynesboro, VA (2024 Update)
- Waynesboro Solar Installation Cost: $19,870
- 25-Year Savings: $20,173
- Payback Period: 14.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Waynesboro
We go over average solar pricing in Waynesboro.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Waynesboro, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.9-kW system would cost about $19,870 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Waynesboro homeowner. The price 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.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Waynesboro
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,271 |
| 3 years | $-15,073 |
| 5 years | $-11,875 |
| 7 years | $-8,677 |
| 9 years | $-5,480 |
| 11 years | $-2,282 |
| 13 years | $916 |
| 15 years | $4,114 |
| 17 years | $7,312 |
| 19 years | $10,510 |
| 21 years | $13,708 |
| 23 years | $16,906 |
| 25 years | $20,103 |
Top Solar Installers in Waynesboro
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar company since handling can be a difficult project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Waynesboro, optimizing your ROI.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Waynesboro, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Waynesboro
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Waynesboro
There are many criteria that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,590. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Waynesboro, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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 Waynesboro to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to 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 significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you select will impact your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $3.73 | $15,681 | $11,177 | 14.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $15,304 | 14.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $19,633 | 14.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $24,163 | 13.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $28,894 | 13.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $33,825 | 13.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $38,958 | 12.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $44,292 | 12.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the longevity of your solar energy system, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Waynesboro, VA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Waynesboro?
The average cost of solar panels in Waynesboro is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Waynesboro?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Waynesboro. However, you may still be able to install 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.
Is it worth going solar in Waynesboro?
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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.