Solar setup cost

How much do solar panels cost?

With solar panels priced between $2.40 and $3.60 per watt, the total cost of your system rises in proportion to the energy it must generate. The selection of solar panels affects the material costs of your solar system, ranging from $0.90 to $1.50 per watt.

How much does solar installation cost?

Installation labor accounts for around 5.5% of the total cost of a residential solar project, according to a 2022 report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. That amounts to $1,375 for a $25,000 solar project.

How much energy does a solar system cost?

Before solar, this represents the average utility rate over the next 20 years, assuming annual rate hikes between 3-5% (based on location). After solar, this is essentially your lifetime energy cost divided by the total production of your system. Here’s how that looks for the example system above: $45,102 / 242,483 kWh = 18.6 kWh

How do I calculate my solar cost?

Let’s start with the quickest method: online calculators. First, you can use an online solar cost calculator, like this one powered by solar.com. Simply punch in your address and your average monthly electricity bill, and the calculator will give you a side-by-side comparison of the cost of solar versus paying for utility electricity.

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.

Where can I find a free solar cost calculator?

Solar.com offers a free solar cost calculator that uses Google’s Project Sunroof and real-time utility rates to estimate how much you can save by going solar. Using the calculator is easy. Click the link above to open it in a new tab, and we’ll talk you through how to use it!