Solar Panel Cost Guide in Buchanan, WI (2024 Update)
- Buchanan Solar Installation Cost: $19,712
- 25-Year Savings: $22,118
- Payback Period: 13.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Buchanan
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Buchanan.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Buchanan typically cost about 4.The average Buchanan homeowner needs a 7.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,712 with the federal tax credit, or $28,188 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Buchanan 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.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Buchanan homeowners see about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Buchanan
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-18,416 |
| 3 years | $-15,825 |
| 5 years | $-13,234 |
| 7 years | $-10,643 |
| 9 years | $-8,052 |
| 11 years | $-5,461 |
| 13 years | $-2,870 |
| 15 years | $-279 |
| 17 years | $2,312 |
| 19 years | $4,903 |
| 21 years | $7,494 |
| 23 years | $10,085 |
| 25 years | $12,676 |
Top Solar Installers in Buchanan
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it involves extra time and handiness. That's why almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer 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 switch to solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar system company 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Buchanan
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Buchanan
Though the average cost of a solar system in Buchanan is $19,712, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $3,880. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Buchanan average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Buchanan homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.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 back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Buchanan, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.04 | $16,948 | $12,258 | 14.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $16,778 | 14.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $21,516 | 13.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $26,471 | 13.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $31,643 | 13.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $37,033 | 13.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $42,640 | 12.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $48,464 | 12.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, such as:
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Buchanan, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Buchanan?
The average cost of solar panels in Buchanan is about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as 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 Buchanan?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Buchanan, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Buchanan?
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 electricity bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.