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Solar panels cost, on average, about $16,000, or between $4,500 to $36,000 depending on the type and model as well as any inverters and the BOS, or balance of the system that includes any equipment that’s required to operate . While solar panels can help save you money on energy costs, it’s important to know the overall startup solar panel costs so you can make a budget. Frameless Solar Panel
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Of course, solar panel costs and pricing estimates will vary by state and by region. Regions with higher usage and statistically more sunny days per year will typically have robust incentive programs built in place already, whereas other areas of the U.S. may not be seeing that level of development.
Solar panels vary in durability, efficiency and size depending on the type you choose. Homes or projects with limited roof space typically require more efficient panels. Learn more below about the top three solar panel types.
On average, monocrystalline solar panels (the most energy-efficient solar panel option) cost $1 to $1.50 per watt, meaning that outfitting a 6kW solar panel system (also known as a solar system) costs between $6,000 and $9,000. They have an average lifespan of up to 40 years, and though both are common for residential use, monocrystalline panels are more efficient than polycrystalline panels.
Less energy-efficient than monocrystalline solar panels, polycrystalline solar panels cost $0.75 to $1 per watt, so outfitting a 6kW solar panel system would cost between $4,500 and $6,000 making it a more affordable option. Like monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline panels are common for residential use. Polycrystalline panels aren’t as efficient, but they are more affordable. They have an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years.
On average, thin-film solar panels cost between $0.75 and $1.10 per watt, meaning that outfitting a 6kW solar panel system costs between $4,500 and $6,600. Thin-film solar panels are more inexpensive than their counterparts but require a large amount of space, and hence, are primarily used in industrial settings or for small projects like RVs or sheds. They have an average lifespan of just 10 to 20 years and a shorter warranty.
Anticipate spending anywhere from $5,400 to $18,000 for an average solar system ranging from 6kW to 12kWs. With installation, that price range increases to between $6,600 and $22,800.
Eligible residential solar systems purchased through 2032 will receive a 30% federal solar tax credit. This tax credit could decrease your solar system costs to somewhere between $4,600 and $16,000.
Below is a closer look at solar system material costs by size:
Installing solar panels can cost anywhere between $5,400 and $18,000. This price will depend on two important factors: the amount of sunlight and regional incentives.
The number of solar panels you’ll need to generate enough power is the greatest reason for these cost disparities.
For example, if you live in the Golden State of California, you may require fewer solar panels to generate enough energy to power your home than, say, if you live in North Dakota. You’ll find that solar power costs more in regions farther from the equator, like Alaska, and costs less in sun-drenched regions, making it a more economical option for those latter areas.
At the same time, location isn’t everything—there are sunny states that could have strong solar power incentives and net metering programs, but don’t.
Take Alabama, for instance. The state receives a great deal of sunlight, but according to research from the Center for Biological Diversity, there are limited net metering policies in place to help you receive credits for the energy your solar system produces.
Meanwhile, you have a state like Washington, which doesn’t receive as much sunlight overall, but has excellent net metering programs to help you earn money back for generating solar energy.
Consider local and state incentives as you factor in the cost of your solar panels. You can use the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) to find policies and incentives in your area that might lower the cost of your solar panel system.
The average cost to install solar panels per watt is between $0.90 and $1.50 per watt for the materials and an additional 25% for the labor. This means you’ll spend anywhere between $1.10 and $1.90 per watt in total.
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Multiple unique factors go into the price of solar panels, and they are related to your electricity use and home. Here’s what to consider when calculating costs:
The cost of solar panels is dependent on the solar panel company you choose. From the solar equipment system itself to installation costs and add-ons, the price will vary from company to company and the first step is to consider your options for the best solar companies.
When assessing solar panel cost, the size, weight and number of panels are important. For instance, when determining how many solar panels to buy, there are a few pieces of information you’ll need to know:
Once you determine those, you can begin to calculate the cost. Divide your annual energy usage by 12 to get your monthly average in kWh. The average energy output of a typical solar panel is about 45 kWh per month. Use that number to determine how many panels you’ll need to cover your monthly usage.
You’ll need 20 to 25 panels to fully power most homes. However, that number can range anywhere from 15 to 34 panels depending on the size of the home, the efficiency of the panels and where they’re located. A solar panel installer should be able to give you an accurate estimate using your energy usage information.
Installing solar panels earns you a federal solar tax credit. That means you’ll get credit for your income taxes, which lowers your tax bill. Congress renewed the federal tax credit so that systems installed from 2022 through 2032 can now receive a 30% tax credit.
There are three main types of solar panels available for residential use: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. The most energy-efficient and best solar panels for your home, monocrystalline solar panels, cost $1 to $1.50 per watt. Less energy-efficient, polycrystalline solar panels cost $0.90 to $1 per watt. Thin-film solar panels cost between $1 and $1.50 per watt.
Since solar panels come in varying quality, the cost can depend highly on the solar panel’s manufacturer. Although most manufacturers generally see similar cost ranges, the better the solar panel quality, the higher the price.
The efficiency of solar panels is determined by the amount of sunlight reflected on the panels’ surface, which is then transformed into electrical or thermal energy. It’s also important to note that solar panels can be very efficient in colder weather which can improve energy production.
Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient, but their price point is high because of their complex construction. Polycrystalline solar panels are simpler to create, making them less expensive than monocrystalline ones. Thin-film PV cells are easier and less expensive to produce but are the least efficient type of solar panel.
Solar panel costs also vary by state due to local quoting trends and system size differences. States have different average system sizes and incentives, causing prices to differ depending on where you live.
Your roof’s characteristics, like its pitch, will also determine solar panel cost. Typically, your solar company will charge for the difficulty of the installation, and having a complex roof will make your system cost more.
Solar panels tend to come with mounting equipment that can be set up or adjusted to catch the maximum amount of sunlight. Technology has given some panels the ability to self-adjust after mounting, though this capability comes at a higher cost.
There are three types of solar power systems. Material and installation costs for each vary depending on how much equipment is needed.
Additional costs can sneak up while you’re budgeting for a solar panel installation, including maintenance, cleaning, repair and more. Here’s what you need to know.
The cost to maintain solar panels falls between $140 to $180 per service, or $280 to $720 annually. Solar panels need routine maintenance at least twice a year, depending on the manufacturer and manual that came with your panels. Some homeowners may decide to schedule maintenance services four times a year to stay on top of any potential problems.
Cleaning your solar panels costs around $25 per panel or $425 to $525 for an average solar system containing 17 to 21 panels. Pollen, dirt, debris and other grime can greatly impact the efficiency of your panels, leading to a lower energy yield. As such, you’ll want to clean your solar panels once or twice yearly.
If you decide to clean solar panels yourself, you’ll only spend around $100 on the cost of the cleaning tool and a cleaning solution. Just be sure you can do so safely.
Because solar panels increase your home’s value, you might see an increase in the price of your homeowner’s insurance. The amount that your policy rates increase will vary, but you’ll want to ensure that your coverage accounts for the cost to replace solar panels if your home gets damaged.
If you want to keep track of your solar system’s energy production, you’ll spend anywhere from $0 to $400. Some companies, like SolarEdge, may offer free PV system monitoring, but most installations will require some level of monetary investment into measurement instruments, the internet and other specs.
Tree trimming costs between $250 and $700, on average. The type of tree, number of trees and complexity of the project will determine the total cost of the service, with larger, hard-to-reach trees in need of major trimming services costing the most.
If you need to fix any roofing problems before you install solar panels, roof repairs cost between $150 and $1,500 for minor concerns and $1,500 to $7,000 for major repairs. You must have a structurally sound roof before installing solar panels.
The cost to repair solar panels falls between $300 and $1,300, on average. Small cracks or chips in the glass fall on the lower end of the price range, while solar panel inverter repairs may cost the most. Many solar panel and installation companies offer warranties, however. And those warranty plans can help offset costs.
Solar shingles and tiles serve a dual role as an energy production system and a roofing system. These high-tech roof coverings attach directly to your roof without any additional wiring, acting as a protective layer while generating power for your home. A solar roof can cost anywhere from $23,000 to $80,000 depending on the quality of the materials you choose.
Contrary to popular belief, winter is actually the best time to install solar panels. There is simply less demand for this service in winter, so the installation should cost less as a whole. Even if you live in a region that tends to be cloudy and chilly, your solar panels will still be able to generate energy and in some cases, will even generate more energy than they would in warmer months.
Installing solar panels during winter is also efficient. As solar installation companies typically do fewer jobs in the off-season, your panels are likely to be installed faster. And they will be up and running in no time.
Though solar panels cost money upfront, they can save homeowners money in the long term. The question of how much solar panels will save you depends on several factors, including the hours of daily direct sunlight available, the angle of your roof and the size of your solar panel system. The most important factor in determining how much money solar panels will save you is your local electricity rates.
To determine how much money your solar panels will save you each year, calculate how much you spend on electricity annually. For reference, the typical American family spends about $1,450 annually on electricity according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Then, determine your current utility rate, keeping in mind that utility rates tend to increase by 2.2% each year (yet another reason to install solar panels).
Use an online calculator to estimate your annual savings by plugging in information like your location, energy usage and the current average price of solar panel installation in your area.
A common misconception is that solar panels will eradicate your electricity bills. While this isn’t always the case, solar panels do significantly reduce your monthly electricity bill and are worth the investment.
Although it is a significant investment, homeowners can benefit from lower utility costs once solar panels are installed. When paid for outright, solar panels can cost homeowners anywhere from $16,000 to $36,000. If you’re wondering how to pay for solar panels, there are several ways you can go about it.
Consider paying for solar panel installation outright in cash if you have the extra money in the bank. By owning your solar panels outright, you’ll be able to take advantage of the generous rebate and the tax incentive immediately.
Solar loans allow you to finance solar panels to help alleviate financial stress. Plus, you can have the solar panels installed and start using them to power your home right away with little to no money down. The payment plan will involve monthly payments over a period of time with interest added.
In some states, homeowners can lease solar panels or finance them through what is known as a power purchase agreement (PPA). These leases or PPAs mean a third party will own and install the solar panel system on your roof while you pay that party for your energy each month. Some PPAs will lock you in for a set rate, but some have a payment schedule that rises each year.
If you are refinancing your mortgage, consider a cash-out refinance. This allows you to extract cash from your home’s equity, which homeowners often earmark for needed home improvements or to pay down other debt.
Another alternative financing option is a home equity line of credit (HELOC). This allows you to tap into your home’s equity and use it as a lower-interest credit card so you can access cash for home projects.
Renting solar panels allows you to harness the power of alternative energy at a low monthly rate—only available through Tesla. However, it’s important to note you do not own these panels, so you will not receive any tax advantages or rebates from them.
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According to the EIA, the average annual energy bill in 2022 was approximately $1,650. Since the average solar system costs between $4,600 and $16,000 after the tax credit, it could take you anywhere from three to 10 years to break even on the cost of your solar energy system. It may take you more or less time depending on your electricity costs and financing options, including applied incentives like local and federal tax credits.
To get an idea of how long it may take you to break even, subtract the value of any applied incentives or rebates from the total material and installation cost of your system. Compare your pre-solar utility bills with your post-solar utility bills once your system is operational. Divide the initial cost by your savings to determine the number of years until you break even.
To better understand the installation process, it is recommended that you speak to a solar energy consultant, especially since there are many things to consider and each home is unique. For instance, a consultant can let you know how long installation usually takes on homes similar to yours.
To begin the solar panel installation process, you’ll have to ensure your home is ready for a solar energy system. First and foremost, your roof needs to be large enough, your electrical panel needs to be up to date, and, most importantly, in good shape, so it won’t have to be replaced soon.
Once you’ve determined that your roof is compatible, it’s essential to plan out what you would like your system to provide. Whether you want energy to run lighting or a few appliances or create enough energy to sell some back to the power company or anything in between, this will determine the system’s size.
Before your installation, ensure you have the proper permits from your localities. The most time-consuming parts of the project are often waiting for the permits to be approved and scheduling the subsequent inspections.
You’ll want to consider incentive programs to make the most of your solar investment. These vary by locality and state. Even federal incentives can change from time to time. It would help if you also looked into tax credits, rebates or grants from multiple sources to offset costs. Apply for these incentives before starting physical work.
Since solar panel requirements vary depending on needs and locations, it’s best to order your project’s unique solar panel components all at once to ensure all the materials are compatible and to be as prepared as possible.
Once everything is properly in place, it is time for the solar panel installation. Install the racking system, the panels, the heat sink, the charge controller, the battery bank, the power inverter and the energy meter. Next, double-check all wiring before connecting the energy system to the energy panel to complete the process.
Solar panels can generate major savings if you’re trying to reduce your electricity costs, carbon emissions, or both. The primary factor in determining whether or not solar panels are worthwhile for you is the cost you’re currently paying for electricity. The higher your electricity costs, the more a solar panel system will save you in the long run. This can vary significantly based on your location.
If you live in a region with middle- to upper-level utility rates, you can pretty much guarantee that a solar panel will save you big bucks over time. Solar panels tend to be worth the investment as long as you go about the installation process wisely. Best Solar Companies By State AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaOhioOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsin
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Technically, you can purchase a DIY solar panel installation kit for about $1 to $2 per watt and install them yourself. However, the job is complex and dangerous enough that we don’t recommend it.
Solar panel installation involves highly specific skills and technology, heavy equipment, climbing on roofs and risk of electric shock. Most areas require you to pay for a permit and inspection, and some states require you to have a solar contractor license to install panels. Improper installation can void your system’s warranty. Instead, we recommend hiring a local solar panel installation company to correctly install your system for maximum safety and efficiency.
To arrive at the average costs in this article, we surveyed four local and national cost databases. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
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The most significant benefit of installing solar panels is that you will save energy and, in turn, electricity costs. If your solar panels are large enough, you can produce enough electricity for your home. But, even if your solar panels switch between the electricity from your solar panels to using energy from the National Grid, you’ll undoubtedly use less electricity and pay lower bills.
Solar panels help reduce your monthly electricity bills and can potentially increase the home’s value in the eyes of buyers more than comparable homes with no solar panels. According to research conducted by Zillow, homes with a solar energy system have a 4.1% higher selling point than homes without solar energy
Solar panels can take anywhere from one to five days to install, with most installations taking up to three days on average. The size of your system, weather conditions and the accessibility of your rooftop will all determine how long it takes for your installation crew to complete the project.
Net metering, or net energy metering, is a mechanism that allows you to transfer solar energy produced by your panels to the grid. Your utility or electric company will pay you for the energy by running your electric meter backward, decreasing your energy bills. Net metering is only possible with a grid-tied solar system.
The typical solar panel lifespan is 25 to 30 years, though some types of panels can last up to 40 years or more. Most manufacturers have limited warranties for 25 years, but you’ll want to check the specifications on your particular panels to be sure. These warranties are typically only valid when the panels are installed professionally.
You’ll pay between $6,600 and $11,400 to install a 6kW solar system. Remember, if you’re eligible, you’ll receive a 30% tax credit, which will put your final cost somewhere between $4,600 and $8,000, on average. Research solar energy incentives in your local area to see what credits or rebates you may qualify for.
The average 10kW solar system costs anywhere from $9,000 to $15,000 or $11,000 to $19,000 with labor. After the solar tax credit, you’re likely to pay between $7,700 and $13,300 for a panel of this size.
Rebecca Brill is a writer whose essays have appeared in The Paris Review Daily, VICE, Literary Hub, and elsewhere. She runs the Susan Sontag's Diary and the Sylvia Plath's Food Diary accounts on Twitter and is at work on her first book.
Solar Panel System Daniel Resnick has over a decade of experience in the solar industry. He began his career more than 14 years ago with residential solar and is now involved with utility scale projects around the world. With a general physics degree and a certified internal auditor accreditation, Daniel is able to provide insight into everything solar as it relates to technology and equipment manufacturing in both residential and commercial applications. Additionally, his experience with and passion for affordable and clean energy help him offer information about the origination of solar in multiple areas.