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If you’re considering a solar panel system to help offset electricity costs, you’ll want to understand what goes into the total cost of installation. A few key factors include:
Materials like polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar panels, metering equipment, and installation labor all impact pricing. Your location is also a factor.
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Installation
When shopping for solar panels, be wary of deals that appear too good to be true. They may not include important elements, like the warranty or labor for installation.
Your household’s energy demand will affect how much your system costs. Larger systems cost more, but they also yield greater savings over time. Panel quality is another factor, as higher-quality panels typically deliver more energy and longer product life.
Other variables that affect the price of a solar panel system are your location and electricity rates. You’ll also need to consider permit fees, which vary by city and state.
Other potential solar panel installation costs to keep in mind include maintenance, which can be handled through a leasing agreement with a solar equipment provider. You’ll need to regularly inspect your solar panels for problems and clean them (especially if you live in an area with a lot of dirt or wildfires). You can pay for these services through a maintenance agreement, a home equity loan or a line of credit.
Equipment
The main solar panel cost determinants are the type of panels, the amount of energy needed to power your home, and how much sun your location gets.
Solar panel prices vary by brand; higher-end brands may have a better reputation than lower-priced options. It would help if you also considered wattage and panel efficiency: higher-efficiency panels produce more power in a smaller area but are more expensive.
Another key factor is whether your solar system will be on-grid or off-grid. On-grid systems will connect to your utility company’s electric grid, while off-grid systems will be independent power generation plants.
If you opt for a hybrid system, it will tie into the grid but have backup batteries. It will be more expensive than an off-grid system but less costly than a complete on-grid solution. In addition, homeowners should always look into local and state incentives to offset equipment costs. This will help to reduce the initial investment and maximize financial benefits.
Maintenance
While solar systems are designed to withstand the elements, they can still require maintenance. It’s important to watch them closely for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracked glass or loose bolts. You’ll also need to monitor your system’s energy output for any sudden drops, which could indicate a problem with the equipment.
Fortunately, these costs should be manageable since your panels should only be cleaned occasionally. While you can perform some cleaning yourself, hiring a professional is recommended to avoid dangerous situations like climbing on your roof.
Depending on your location, you may need to pay for services like tree trimming to ensure the sun can reach your panels. While these costs are relatively minimal, it’s important to factor them into your long-term planning. The good news is that you can minimize these costs by ensuring that the installation process is done correctly.
Financing
You may pay for your solar panel system with a lump sum, take out a loan or enter into a power purchase agreement (PPA). Each option affects your total costs and savings.
A cash purchase requires the largest upfront investment but saves you the most money in the long run, as you won’t have to add interest to your overall cost. Many solar installation companies offer financing through third-party lenders, often with a single-digit interest rate and terms between 10 and 25 years.
You can also finance your solar panels through the bank you already use for your checking or savings account, which may offer more attractive rates and terms than a solar-specific lender. However, you should ensure your solar system is eligible for local, state and federal incentives before beginning the financing process.
