Solar Panel Cost Guide in West Salem, WI (2024 Update)
- West Salem Solar Installation Cost: $20,137
- 25-Year Savings: $22,056
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in West Salem
We go over average solar pricing in West Salem.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in West Salem it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.4-kW system would cost about $20,137 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in West Salem can save about $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in West Salem
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,033 |
| 3 years | $-16,824 |
| 5 years | $-14,616 |
| 7 years | $-12,407 |
| 9 years | $-10,199 |
| 11 years | $-7,990 |
| 13 years | $-5,782 |
| 15 years | $-3,573 |
| 17 years | $-1,365 |
| 19 years | $844 |
| 21 years | $3,052 |
| 23 years | $5,261 |
| 25 years | $7,469 |
Top Solar Installers in West Salem
Many homeowners decide to use a solar installation company since installing solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Because solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 West Salem
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in West Salem
Although the average cost of a solar system in West Salem is $20,137, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,880.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to get 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 a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular option because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in West Salem is the company you choose to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.Additionally, some companies in West Salem are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $4.04 | $16,948 | $11,821 | 14.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $16,195 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $20,788 | 14.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $25,597 | 13.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $30,624 | 13.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $35,867 | 13.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $41,329 | 13.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $47,007 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
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 West Salem, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in West Salem?
The average cost of solar panels in West Salem 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 such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is going solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.