Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kennewick, WA (2024 Update)
- Kennewick Solar Installation Cost: $9,712
- 25-Year Savings: $11,541
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Kennewick
We go over average solar pricing in Kennewick.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Kennewick, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average Kennewick homeowner needs a 3.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,712 with the federal tax credit, or $13,888 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Kennewick
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,701 |
| 3 years | $-6,679 |
| 5 years | $-4,657 |
| 7 years | $-2,635 |
| 9 years | $-614 |
| 11 years | $1,408 |
| 13 years | $3,430 |
| 15 years | $5,452 |
| 17 years | $7,474 |
| 19 years | $9,495 |
| 21 years | $11,517 |
| 23 years | $13,539 |
| 25 years | $15,561 |
Top Solar Installers in Kennewick
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Taking advantage of an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Kennewick, optimizing your ROI.
If you're looking for a solar company in Kennewick, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Kennewick
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kennewick
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Kennewick: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, 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 nearly $3,590. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get 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
Most solar installers in Kennewick have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.It’s a good idea to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Kennewick is the company you hire to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Kennewick have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $13,416 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $18,290 | 13.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $23,365 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $28,641 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $34,118 | 12.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $39,796 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $45,675 | 11.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $51,755 | 11.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Kennewick, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Kennewick, WA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Kennewick?
The average cost of solar panels in Kennewick 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 kind 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 without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Kennewick?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Kennewick?
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 larger amount 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.