How much does it cost to install solar panels?

After solar incentives, the general range is $10,000 to $30,000 for an average American household to invest in solar panels. This includes the cost of the panels themselves, installation and any additional equipment needed. It typically takes five to 15 years to break even on solar installation costs.

What factors influence the average cost of solar panel installation?

The factors influencing the average cost of solar panel installation include hard and soft costs. Hard costs include the physical equipment like racking, panels, inverters and batteries. Soft costs include sales tax, installation labor, permitting, company overhead and marketing.

How much does a solar system cost?

Leasing a system is cheaper upfront, but you won’t get the federal tax credit. The average 5-kilowatt (kW) solar panel system is $14,210 before considering any financial incentives. However, a typical American household needs a system closer to 10 kW to adequately power their home, which costs $28,241 in 2024.

Can solar panels save money on energy costs?

Yes, homeowners across the US can save money on energy costs by powering their homes with solar panels instead of purchasing electricity from a utility. This is especially true following the rapid rise in grid electricity rates in 2022 and 2023.

How can I reduce the cost of solar panels?

Some examples include: It’s well worth spending 5-10 minutes searching for solar incentives through your state, county, city, and utility provider. The next way to reduce the cost of solar panels is to shop for the lowest price like you would for cars or a new pair of hiking boots.

How much does a solar panel upgrade cost?

Electrical panel upgrades: Not all homeowners need to get a new electrical panel when they go solar, but if you live in an older home or your breaker box is too small, you may need to get an upgrade. Depending on the project, and electrical panel upgrade for solar could cost between $2,000 and $3,000.