Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wharton, TX (2024 Update)
- Wharton Solar Installation Cost: $17,712
- 25-Year Savings: $23,983
- Payback Period: 11.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wharton
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Wharton.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Wharton generally cost about 3.Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $17,712 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Wharton homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the significant initial cost, the average Wharton homeowner can save about $19,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Wharton that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Wharton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,251 |
| 3 years | $-13,328 |
| 5 years | $-10,405 |
| 7 years | $-7,482 |
| 9 years | $-4,559 |
| 11 years | $-1,636 |
| 13 years | $1,287 |
| 15 years | $4,210 |
| 17 years | $7,133 |
| 19 years | $10,056 |
| 21 years | $12,979 |
| 23 years | $15,902 |
| 25 years | $18,825 |
Top Solar Installers in Wharton
When going solar, many homeowners choose to use a solar installation company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Some solar companies, particularly local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Wharton, thereby optimizing your ROI.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Wharton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wharton
Though the average cost of a solar system in Wharton is $17,712, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,330 per kilowatt in Wharton.The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Wharton homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Wharton is the company you hire to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.46 | $14,545 | $15,689 | 12.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $21,292 | 11.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $27,082 | 11.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $33,057 | 11.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $39,220 | 11.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $45,568 | 10.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $52,103 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $58,825 | 10.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: When reading through 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 like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Wharton, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Wharton?
The average cost of solar panels in Wharton is about $16,650 for a 5-kW system and $33,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Wharton?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Wharton. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,007.83 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Wharton?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.