Family Encyclopedia >> Work

How much does it really cost to install solar panels?

Did you know that the average cost of installing solar panels has decreased by 89% since 2010?

SummaryTypes of solar panelsCalculate how much you will saveFind incentives in your areaDetermine the cost of installationNow you know what to consider when determining the cost of installing solar panels

Once upon a time, solar was something you could only do if you were among the wealthy elite, but that's no longer the case. The cost of solar has come down significantly and will continue to come down over the years.

Wondering what the real price of solar is? Keep reading. We'll do our best to break it down for you.

Types of solar panels

When installing home solar panels, you need to consider the type of system you want. You can get three main types of systems with residential solar panels:on-grid, on-grid with batteries, and off-grid.

Each of these systems depends differently on the existing power grid. If you have a grid tie system, you will always have access to the electricity grid and you will use your solar panels to save on your electricity bills.

Grid connection with battery backup means you'll probably want to store power for potential outages. An off-grid system is what it sounds like; you will not be connected to the electricity grid and will supply all the electricity to your house by other means.

All of these systems have advantages and disadvantages and have different prices. Identify your electricity consumption goals and work out your needs from there.

Calculate how much you'll save

Installing solar panels can be a way to cover all your electricity needs or supplement what you already have. Before mapping your new system, take stock of how much electricity you use in a month. Once you know how much electricity you are using, you can speak with your solar panel installation specialists to estimate how many panels you will need.

Search-for-incentives in your area

Buying solar panels means you automatically qualify for a federal tax credit. This means that you will get back a percentage of what you put into your solar system.

There may also be state-level incentives like net metering, so do some research to find out how much you could get back. Incentives can significantly reduce the overall cost.

Determine the cost of installation

Due to the range of sizes, the best solar panels are determined by their cost per watt. If you're looking for the lowest price per watt of output power, you'll be looking for less space-efficient panels.

Speak with your solar installer to discuss the cost of installing these panels and the area of ​​your property you will need to adjust or modify before they are installed. If you need to update your roof or clear a bunch of land, it's best to know those costs upfront.

Now you know what to do consider when determining the cost of installing solar panels

The cost of installing solar panels is no longer out of reach for many people. Do some math and figure out if the switch is right for you! If you've always dreamed of going solar, now might be the time.

Want to know more about the technology? What about business? We have articles for almost every interest! Check out some of our other pages and find another exciting article to read today!