Solar Panel Cost Guide in Arcadia, WI (2024 Update)

  • Arcadia Solar Installation Cost: $20,120
  • 25-Year Savings: $23,315
  • Payback Period: 13.7 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated June 24, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Arcadia

See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Arcadia.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Arcadia it’s 4 per watt.Since a 7.4-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Arcadia, the average price of going solar will be about $20,120 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Arcadia homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Arcadia

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-19,016
3 years$-16,807
5 years$-14,599
7 years$-12,390
9 years$-10,182
11 years$-7,973
13 years$-5,765
15 years$-3,556
17 years$-1,348
19 years$861
21 years$3,069
23 years$5,278
25 years$7,486

Top Solar Installers in Arcadia

Many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. Because solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.

If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:

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Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Arcadia

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Arcadia

The cost of installing a solar system in Arcadia can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.

Solar Equipment

One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,880 per kilowatt in Arcadia.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In general, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Arcadia homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can play a part in determining how much you pay. Arcadia’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to more 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 lower to compete with bigger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.04$16,948$12,85614.2 years
8 kW$3.96$22,163$17,57513.9 years
10 kW$3.88$27,160$22,51213.7 years
12 kW$3.80$31,940$27,66713.4 years
14 kW$3.72$36,503$33,03813.1 years
16 kW$3.65$40,849$38,62712.8 years
18 kW$3.57$44,977$44,43312.6 years
20 kW$3.49$48,888$50,45712.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
  • Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you want to get plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
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Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Arcadia, WI Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Arcadia?

The average cost of solar panels in Arcadia is about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Arcadia?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it often 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 option if you want to maximize your savings.

Does Arcadia 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 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 Arcadia?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.