How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
Saving money is Smart. Going solar is a Smart investment. Everyone asks about cost, but if your goal is to maximize how much you make from your investment, then the most important questions are “how much money will you save each month on electric bills?” and “how quickly does your solar system pay for itself?”
To calculate that payback period, you need to account for factors like the quality of your solar system, how much sun reaches your solar panels, whether you lease or own the system, the cost per watt, available tax credits, and quite a few more. Reputable solar providers can calculate those factors to show you how quickly your system will pay for itself in electric bill savings.
But understandably, you want to know how much it will cost to put a solar system on your roof. Below we’ll break down cost and some of the other major factors that you should consider.
Estimating how much home solar panels cost in 2021
One of the first questions someone interested in home solar asks is, How much do solar panels cost? It’s important to know there is not a one-size-fits-all answer because every home is different, and there are many geographic variables and federal and local tax incentives to consider.
The easiest thing to do is to contact a professional solar installer. The installer will give you a free evaluation that entails looking at your electricity bill to find out how many kilowatt hours of electricity your household typically uses and evaluating your roof and shading, to determine how many panels you’ll need. That, combined with local solar incentives your community may offer and the federal solar tax credit, will give you a full picture of how much your home solar system will cost. The good news is that no matter where you live, the cost of solar panels is coming down.
We look at the price per watt when figuring out the cost of your system, but you may find it more useful to think about the price of leasing a solar system separately from the price to own one. That’s because with a lease it’s important to think about how much you can save for each month of the lease, but when you own the system it’s more important to understand how quickly it can pay for itself.
What is the cost of individual solar panels?
Very few people are going to buy just the solar panels themselves, just like few people would buy the components of a car and build their own vehicle. We recommend you use a SunPower-approved installer for your solar system.
Yes, it’s possible to buy a single solar panel for as little as 100, but a solar panel does not operate in isolation. You need a system of hardware and software to generate electricity from the sun, including solar panels, an inverter, mounting hardware, wires and cables., It is also beneficial to have a monitoring system that tracks the production, energy use and savings of your system. And you need to consider the cost of installation and operation.
Once you get an estimate for the cost of your solar system, you should subtract the potential savings on your utility bill over time, including any incentives offered by your local or state governments. Then you’ll have a better understanding of how going solar will impact your finances.
What are the factors that affect solar panels?
The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors, including the:
- Quality of the solar system
- Household’s energy needs
- Local weather
- Available roof space and shading
- Financing options selected (cash, loan, or lease)
To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we’ve analyzed SunPower price quotes, as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources for thousands of homeowners across the country.
We found that the cost of installing a 5 kW solar system in the U.S. ranges from 11,150 to 46,100, or in other words, from 2.23 to 9.22 per watt. And that’s before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.
The chart below shows the average cost of a 5 kW home solar system in each U.S. state.
How do I know how much sun my roof gets?
The more direct sunlight your home receives, the more power the panels can produce. But there’s a little more to it than just sunlight. To see if your house is a good candidate for solar, try out a solar panel suitability checker such as Google’s Project Sunroof. Then set up an appointment for a solar consultation with an expert who’ll visit your home to inspect its orientation (solar panels facing south capture more energy), roof angle and tree shading to see if your roof will receive enough sunlight to meet your family’s electricity needs. SunPower’s solar consultations are free, online or in-person, and you can learn more about your home electricity needs and savings options.
SunPower panels are proven to be the most efficient on the market —not to mentioned unmatched at generating power in low-light situations—but, excessive shading will reduce the amount of power that can be generated.
It’s also important to know a SunPower Equinox ® solar solution has unique, factory-integrated microinverters in each panel. Meaning, if one panel isn’t producing energy because of shade, neighboring panels receiving more sunlight can still generate solar energy for your home.
What are the most efficient solar panels?
Remember that the adage, “You get what you pay for,” applies to home solar technology. Not all solar systems are alike. The quality of the technology matters in the long run. The durability, reliability and efficiency of solar panels can vary widely by manufacturer. If you settle for a conventional home solar system that might cost less out-of-, you can expect to see average (or below average) results and less savings over time. Watch these videos about the lifespan of SunPower® solar panels and their durability and reliability.
In short, SunPower panels are the most efficient home solar panels you can buy. A higher quality panel like SunPower’s might cost a little more upfront, but you’ll see a higher—and quicker—return on your investment in the long run. Our panels come with a 25-year Complete Confidence warranty and have an expected useful life of 40 years. And since they’re more efficient than other panels on the market, you’ll need fewer of them on your roof. Our panels produce up to 55% more energy in the same space over 25-years than conventional panels, ultimately saving you more money on your electric bill.
Industry measurements such as the Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems’ PV Durability Initiative can give you a better idea of a solar panel’s expected lifespan—a factor that can have a tremendous impact on the system’s lifetime value.
The superior efficiency and durability of high-quality panels can provide increased savings over time and lower maintenance costs. You can get a personalized SunPower solar savings estimate using our solar calculator, which lets you factor in variables like buying solar storage and/or having an electric vehicle.
What solar incentives or solar rebates are available?
There are many different tax incentives, subsidies and financing and billing solutions at the state and local levels that can make going solar more affordable. To see if you might be eligible for renewable energy incentive programs, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables Efficiency (DSIRE®).
If you purchase your solar system, you may qualify for the 26% federal tax credit (ITC). The full solar ITC is available to home solar owners through 2022. It drops to a 22% credit in 2023 and is scheduled to go away completely in 2024, so don’t put off buying solar for too long.
Get a solar estimate
Ultimately, the easiest way to answer the “How much does solar cost” question is to give our solar advisors a call at 844-578-6793. They’ll help you get a free estimate for your home. Or you can contact a solar installer in your area directly. Get more tips on Choosing a Home Solar Installation Company.
When you’re getting solar estimates, be sure to ask about the technology the installer intends to use, their hardware, their monitoring software, their past installations and their maintenance plans. It’s especially important to ask about their warranty.
Most solar companies offer multiple, separate warranties for each component on a solar system, and there can be hidden fees like shipping fees when replacing a broken panel. With SunPower Complete Confidence Warranty, one company backs your entire solar system, including battery storage and monitoring.
Ready to get started? Enter your address into our solar savings calculator to find out how much you can save with the world’s best solar.
- . Tax credits are subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its customers about specific tax outcomes. Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.
- . Local Solar Installers 2020/2021, Solar Reviews 2021, Energy Sage 2021, Wood Mackenzie 2020, National Renewable Energy Laboratory 2020
- . Based on survey of datasheet values from websites of top 20 manufacturers per IHS, as of June 2020.
- . Based on survey of datasheet values from websites of top 20 manufacturers per IHS, as of June 2020.
- . SunPower Module 40-year Useful Life. SunPower whitepaper. 2013.
- . SunPower 400 W, 22.6% efficient, compared to a Conventional Panel on same-sized arrays (280 W multi, 17% efficient, approx. 1.64 m²), 8% more energy per watt (based on PVSim runs for avg US climate), 0.5%/yr slower degradation rate (Jordan, et. al. Robust PV Degradation Methodology and Application. PVSC 2018).
- . Tax credits are subject to change. SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or otherwise advise its customers about specific tax outcomes. Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to your specific circumstances. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
Solar panel costs have dropped significantly over the last decade and home energy systems are now more affordable than ever.
While project costs can vary, having an idea of what it might cost to switch to solar power can help you decide if it’s right for your home.
In this guide, we’ll cover the following:
How Much Does It Cost To Go Solar In Florida?
Data shows the average cost to go solar in Florida is 35,000 if you don’t qualify for the federal tax credit. If you do qualify, the average solar panel project cost is 24,500. However, project costs vary based on system size, tax credit, and financing costs. This data table can be used to estimate your solar panel cost based on your approximate roof size.
| 9 kW | 26,250 | 18,375 | 1,350 |
| 10 kW | 29,166 | 20,416 | 1,500 |
| 11 kW | 32,083 | 22,458 | 1,650 |
| 12 kW | 35,000 | 24,500 | 1,800 |
| 13 kW | 37,916 | 26,541 | 1,950 |
| 14 kW | 40,833 | 28,583 | 2,100 |
| 15 kW | 43,750 | 30,625 | 2,250 |
Source https://www.ecowatch.com/ Average system costs are based on residential solar projects installed in 2021 across the state of Florida. Your actual project costs could vary.
Breakdown Of Solar Panel Costs
The total cost of a home solar system includes more than just the cost of each individual solar panel. Even the most basic system will require roof mourning hardware, inverters, wiring, and electrical hookups. For the average home energy system, solar panel costs can be broken down into five categories.
Home Energy System Components
While knowing the average cost of Florida solar panels can be helpful when budgeting, the final project cost can vary based on home size and each component of the system.
Florida homeowners have several options to choose from when it comes to selecting solar panels. vary between manufacturer, type of panel (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film) and efficiency rating. Generally, a higher quality solar panel comes with a higher price tag.
Without inverters, your home solar system will not work. This device converts the energy created from each solar panel into a usable form for your home and the grid.
In the past, all solar panels would be connected to a single inverter. While this lowered costs, the entire system would stop working if one solar panel went down. Now, solar energy systems are designed so that each panel has its own inverter meaning the system will stay functional even if one panel drops.
The importance of a quality solar mounting system cannot be overstated, especially here in Florida, where hurricanes are common. At Raze Solar, we suggest homeowners use the IronRidge mounting system created to withstand winds 150 mph.
Solar panel installation costs can vary depending on the home’s size and roof complexity. In general, projects with a high number of solar panels will cost more.
What most online solar project calculators fail to include in the cost breakdown are the city permit fees, application fees to the utility company, financing costs, and the labor cost to design and engineer the system. Additional system components like solar batteries and car chargers can also increase project costs.
What Would It Cost You To Go Solar?
The easiest way for you to calculate the cost of solar panels for your home is to request a free quote from our experts.
We will analyze your existing energy usage, determine the best placement to maximize production, and design a system that allows you to save money on energy costs.
From there, you can see the exact breakdown of solar costs to determine if it makes sense for your home and specific energy needs.
Find Out Your Costs To Switch
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Factors That Impact Solar Panel Costs
Comparing solar panel quotes or looking for ways to save? Learn what factors influence the cost of solar panels.
Solar Panel Cost Variable #1
System Size
Larger home energy systems will require more solar panels and components and thus increase costs across the board. Making sure to work with a licensed solar energy company in Florida is one way to ensure you buy a properly sized system. One too large will increase project costs and reduce long-term savings, while one too small will not cover all electricity needs.
Solar Panel Cost Variable #2
Solar Panel Type
There are three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. Each type varies in efficiency, longevity, and price.
These are the best option for Florida homes. They are cut from a single source of silicon which makes them more efficient and take up less space. In addition, they have the longest lifespan and work well in warm weather, both of which are important for Florida homeowners. This is the most expensive type of home solar panel.
This type of panel is blue in color and are created by blending multiple sources of silicon. This is what makes them about 20% less efficient. Price is related to energy efficiency levels, so Florida homeowners can expect to pay 20% less compared to monocrystalline solar panels.
These are flexible and best suited for smaller projects like a shed or RV. They are made of one or more layers of thin-film material that absorb light and produce electricity. They’re made using amorphous silicon thin film, cadmium telluride thin film, gallium arsenide or copper indium gallium selenide. These are the least expensive type of solar panels, but they also have lower lifespans and warranty periods, making them less than ideal for Florida homes.
Solar Panel Cost Variable #3
Solar Batteries / Connection Type
Adding one battery can double or triple the costs of solar panels. Each solar battery (larger homes need multiple) can cost upwards of 10,000. In addition, extra solar panels will have to be added to maintain battery levels and ensure they remain full.
Forgoing solar batteries and remaining connected to the energy grid is the single best way to reduce solar panel costs. Also called net-meeting, this type of solar connection allows you to earn credits for extra energy produced and sent back to the grid. Florida Power Light, Gulf Power, Duke Energy, and Tampa Electric Company all offer net metering programs.
Solar Panel Cost Variable #4
Tax Credit
The solar tax credit can cut project costs by 30%, but only if the tax credit amount is less than your tax liability. Put another way, this is a nonrefundable tax credit which means you cannot use it to get money back from the government if you did not pay enough in taxes for that year. This can limit savings for those that are retired or on limited incomes.
Solar Panel Cost Variable #5
Payment Method
Paying for solar panels using cash is the most cost-effective option and helps you avoid down payments, interest, and finance charges. However, this is not feedable for most Florida homeowners. Special financing does exist for home energy systems, but homeowners need to understand that extra fees can increase solar panel costs.
Get Help From A Florida Solar Installer
Calculate Solar Panel Costs For Your Home
Knowing how many panels you need and the costs associated with switching to solar can be difficult and time-consuming for any homeowner. Let our experts do it for free!
We will visit your home to provide a free roof inspection, calculate your energy needs, and design a home solar system to maximize productivity and eliminate your energy bill. The best part is that it’s 100% free and no-obligation. Schedule online and know the true cost of solar panels for your home!
How To Evaluate Solar Panel Costs In Florida
Having a uniform way to calculate solar costs can help you compare quotes to get the best deal and compare the cost of solar to grid energy to calculate lifetime savings. There are two main ways you can do this:
- Price per kWh – comparing solar cost to grid energy
- Price per watt – comparing quotes from multiple solar companies
Calculating solar panel price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) lets you compare the price of solar to the price of grid energy. The average cost of grid energy in Florida is 14 cents/kilowatt-hour. If the cost of solar is less than that, it indicates your home is a good fit for solar panels, and you could save money long-term by making the switch.
What is a kilowatt hour? A kilowatt-hour is a unit of energy and is equivalent to consuming 1,000 watts – or 1 kilowatt – of power over one hour.
Price per kilowatt hour = net cost of the system/lifetime production output
To calculate solar panel costs as price per kWh take the net cost of the system (contract price. tax credit) and divide it by the lifetime output of the system. Compare that to the price per kWh that you pay for grid energy.
For Florida homeowners, the average cost of solar in kWh ranges from 6-9 cents. Unlike grid energy which can increase in cost at any time, the cost of solar will remain the same for the lifetime of the panels.
The price per watt of a solar energy system is calculated by dividing the contract price by the number of watts the system will produce.
Price per watt = gross system price/watts of system
In Florida, the average price per watt of solar is 3.00. 4.00. Because this method measures a system’s relative amount of power, it makes it easy to compare multiple solar panel quotes to determine the best deal, even if they are for different panels, manufacturers, or efficiency ratings.
How Much do Solar Panels Cost in Virginia?
Virginia’s electricity rates are the sixth highest in the nation. That means you could be paying more for electricity than 86% of the country.
But you can do something about it. By installing solar, you’ll own the means of producing your own electricity, freeing you from the expensive and ever-increasing electricity rates.
That said, solar energy costs money to install. And Virginia is a big state. Installing solar panels in the Shenandoah Valley will be a little different from installing solar in Virginia Beach.
In this blog, we’ll break down how much solar panels cost in Virginia, and we’ll give insight into what it’s like to go solar in your region:
The Average Cost of Solar Panels in Virginia
One of the best ways to estimate how much solar will cost you is to relate it to your energy bill. That will give you a rough idea of your system’s size.
Below, we’ve broken this information down into costs for homes and businesses. But for a general rule of thumb, a homeowner in Virginia can expect to pay between 20,000 and 45,000 before incentives. Businesses and farmers can expect to pay 100,000 to 500,000 for a solar panel system in Virginia.
Cost to Install Solar Panels in Virginia for Homeowners
This chart shows what solar costs, on average, are for Virginia homeowners. The cost after incentives includes the 30% solar tax credit.
| Average MonthlyElectric Bill | Solar System Size | Total Installed Cost (Before Incentives) | Cost After Incentives |
| 60 | 5 kW | 25,400 | 17,780 |
| 120 | 10 kW | 35,410 | 24,787 |
| 180 | 15 kW | 46,370 | 32,459 |
Cost to Install Solar Panels in Virginia for Businesses
Below are the average costs for roof-top solar systems for businesses and farms. The cost after incentives column includes the 30% tax credit and the 100% bonus depreciation savings.
| Average MonthlyElectric Bill | Solar System Size | Total Installed Cost (Before Incentives) | Cost After Incentives |
| 600 | 50 kW | 135,500 | 59,434 |
| 1,200 | 100 kW | 240,700 | 105,577 |
| 2,400 | 200 kW | 441,900 | 193,828 |
Cost of Solar Power in Different Areas of Virginia
Charlottesville
Charlottesville and its surrounding communities have some of the sunniest weather in the state. With an average of 217 sunny days a year, your solar panels are going to churn out plenty of cost-free electricity.
On top of that, the local government is there to support homes and businesses looking to go green. The city of Charlottesville offers a tax credit for qualifying solar systems. They also have some great resources on their website, including a map that shows how much sunshine each roof receives.
Hampton Roads
Home to Newport News, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and more, the Hampton Roads region in Virginia is great for solar. With so many tourists flocking to these coastal cities for gorgeous beaches and bright sunshine, local homes and businesses alike can stand to benefit a great deal from solar. Doing so will also help reduce air pollution, keeping those famous ocean views clear and sunrises vibrant.
Local governments are very supportive of installing solar as well. The County of Norfolk launched an initiative with SolSmart to make the solar permitting and planning process even easier. Newport News also has an online solar hub with tons of useful resources for learning about solar.
Harrisonburg
Tucked away in the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is a solar hotspot in Virginia. The emissions-free electricity helps keep those sweeping mountain views clear and saves homeowners and businesses plenty of money.
In April 2022, Harrisonburg partnered with Solarize Virginia. a non-profit committed to making the installation process easier and more affordable. This program provides a solar inspection and connects you with experienced, trusted experts in the area.
Lynchburg
The Lynchburg area gets some serious sunshine. With 222 sunny days on average, Madison Heights is tied for the state’s sunniest city. Timberlake is close behind, with an average of 221 annual days of sunshine. Pamplin City, Concord, and Brookneal all make the top 15.
Your solar system in Lynchburg will have plenty of bright days to churn out free energy. Whether you’re looking to offset your business’s or farm’s operating costs or you’re looking to lower your home’s energy rates, solar may be a good option.
Northern Virginia (NOVA)
With cities like Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas, and Manassas Park, NOVA has one of the highest costs of living in the country. One way to keep monthly costs under control is to install solar.
Depending on your electricity needs and your system’s size, you could offset a huge portion of your monthly energy expenditure.
Fairfax County allows residents to install systems up to 20 kW, and businesses to install systems up to 500 kW. They also offer some local incentives, including waived permitting fees and tax exemptions on top of the national incentives.
For more information on installing solar in Fairfax County and Northern Virginia, check out the county’s solar information web page.
Richmond
Businesses and homes in the Greater Richmond region can gain quite a bit by installing a solar panel system. And through the region’s Solarize RVA campaign, getting the ball rolling on a project is even easier.
They’re out to increase the speed at which Virginians adopt renewables and in doing so, offer a ton of resources to help you out in your project.
Roanoke
Roanoke, Salem, and their surrounding communities make up the largest region in Western Virginia. As a historic hub for transportation and a current transportation manufacturing powerhouse, businesses and homeowners alike stand to gain quite a bit when going solar.
By generating cost-free electricity, they can offset their high electricity bills with renewable energy. It can also help cut down on air pollution, keeping those beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains clear.
In addition, the City of Roanoke initiated a campaign called Solarize Roanoke. which aims to make the solar installation process easier and more affordable. And in 2021, the program started to include options for solar batteries!
Solar Incentives Available in Virginia
One of the biggest factors in solar’s cost is the available incentives. Both federal and local Virginian governments offer incentives that cut solar’s installation costs, making paybacks even better.
One of the most robust incentives is the 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC). This incentive is available to all those who pay federal taxes. You’ll get back 26% of what you spend on your solar energy system back through a tax credit.
In addition to this tax credit, businesses can take advantage of 100% bonus depreciation. With this, you can push all the tax savings from the depreciation of the solar system to the year the system is placed into service.
On a state level, there’s a solar property tax exemption. Installing solar can increase the value of your home, raising your property taxes. But in Virginia, your taxes won’t go up. That said, local municipalities have the option to forgo this exemption, so it may not be available everywhere.
Virginia also requires their utility companies to offer net metering. This is a great solar-friendly program that helps you maximize your solar investment. You’ll upload that extra electricity to the utility grid with net metering. In exchange, you’ll get a “credit” for each kilowatt-hour of electricity. That credit can be exchanged for a kilowatt-hour from the utility at any time.
Is Solar Energy A Good Investment in Virginia?
The federal tax credit, accelerated depreciation, and net metering help to keep the payback period short, so you can save more with solar energy. And in addition to the money you’re saving, you’re also helping to reduce air pollution and your carbon footprint, which can go a long way in keeping Virginia beautiful.
So while the cost to install solar panels in Virginia may seem high, the return on that investment is even higher. With a lifespan of at least 25 to 30 years (the length most quality solar panels are guaranteed for), your system will produce tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars of free electricity. And with Virginia’s high rates, you can stand to save even more.
If you’re ready to take advantage of those savings, the next step is to get a custom quote. Use the button below to get started.
How Much Power Does A 4.5 kW Solar System Produce?
Dec 29th 2022
If you’ve been around solar circles, you’ve probably heard about solar systems and the benefits they provide. You might’ve even heard terms like Watts, wattage, kilowatt-hours, and so on being thrown around.
But most likely, you’ve often been left wondering how these terms relate to you and your solar installation. In fact, you’re not alone, as plenty of people have a hard time understanding exactly how much power a solar system of a certain size (kW) can generate.
Here, we answer your questions, including:
Our answers to the above questions will empower you with the information you need to choose the system size that’s right for your home or business.
How much power does a 4.5 kW solar system produce?
To determine how much power a 4.5kW solar system will produce, you need to know what a 4.5 kW solar system is.
A 4.5 kW solar system usually refers to a solar installation with an array of solar panels with a total wattage of at least 4.5 kW or 4500W. The individual wattage of the solar panels in the array doesn’t change the amount of energy produced by the whole solar panel array.
So to calculate the amount of energy produced by a 4.5kW system you only need to know:
1.The system size, e.g., 4.5kW, 10kW, etc.
2.The peak sun hours in your area. You can find the peak sun hours for your area here. Please keep in mind that peak sun hours can still vary by region within a state.
Once armed with this knowledge, finding out how much power or energy your 4.5kW solar installation will produce is easy.
You only need to multiply your system size (4.5kW) by the number of peak sun hours in your region.
Amount of Power Produced(Wh) = System Size(W) Peak Sun Hours(h)
In the following examples, we are going to calculate the minimum amount of power generated by a 4.5kW system in three different states:
Example 1 – New York (3-3.5 peak sun hours)
4500W 3h = 13500Wh or 13.5kWh
Example 2 – California (5-7.5 peak sun hours)
4500W 5h = 22500Wh or 22.5kWh
Example 3 – Arizona (7-8 peak sun hours)
4500W 7h = 31500Wh or 31.5kWh
On average, a 4.5kW solar system will produce between 15000Wh to 22500Wh (15kW-22.5kW).
To find out how much energy a solar panel produces per day, multiply the panel’s wattage with the number of daily peak sun hours.
How much power does a 10 kW solar system produce?
We are going to repeat almost the same process we used above. We need to know our system size (10kW or 10000W) and the number of peak sun hours in your region.
Suppose you lived in an area that gets 5 peak sun hours each day, your 10kW solar installation would generate:
Amount of Energy Produced by 10kW System (Wh) = 10000W 5 hours
Amount of Energy Produced by 10kW System (Wh) = 50000Wh or 50kWh
With different peak sun hours, the same 10kW system will produce different amounts of energy. For example, under 4 peak sun hours, your system will produce 40kWh and under 3 peak sun hours, it will be 30kWh, etc.
According to the US Energy Information Administration. the average US household used approximately 30kWh or 30000Wh of energy daily. So a 10kW solar system is more than enough to power the average household away from a grid supply, provided your region gets at least 3 peak sun hours.
How much power does a 15 kW solar system produce?
We repeat the same process used for the 4.5kW or 10kW solar systems above.
We multiply the system size by the number of peak sun hours in your area. We will use 5 peak sun hours in our example below. If your region gets a different amount of peak sun hours, replace the ‘5’ with your region’s peak sun hours.
Amount of Power Produced by 15kW solar system = System Size (W) Peak Sun Hours (h)
Amount of Power Produced by 15kW solar = 15000W 5 hours
Amount of Power Produced by 15kW solar = 75000Wh or 75kWh
On average, a 15000W solar system will produce between 45kWh and 75kW of energy.
What is needed for a solar power system?
A solar power system is made up of a combination of devices that allow a household or business to power their electrical devices using power from the sun.
It consists of about 6 main components. Sometimes, some of these devices can be combined into a multipurpose device.
Solar Panels: Generates energy by converting light from the sun into DC electrical power.
Inverter: Converts DC electrical power from the solar panels or batteries into AC electrical power used by most appliances.
Converter: Converts AC electrical power from the grid into DC electrical power that is used to either charge your batteries or power DC appliances.
Charge Controller: Controls and regulates the incoming power generated by the solar panels so that it doesn’t damage the battery or batteries.
Battery or Battery Pack: Stores DC electrical power for use during the night (when the solar panels don’t work) or when there’s no grid supply.
Connectors: These are wires used to transmit and distribute electrical power between the different devices in the solar power system. An example is the wires that link your solar panels to the charge controller.
Of course, the above are not all the devices needed in a solar power system. Other crucial accessories are mounts, brackets, circuit breakers, fuses, bolts, racks, etc.
If buying various components seems daunting, we recommend you check out our Renogy solar kits which have everything you need to set up a working solar installation.
How many solar panels do I need for a 4.5 kW solar system?
Many often find themselves in the trap of getting the most powerful solar panel with the highest wattage instead of getting the most suitable solar panel for your installation.
At the end of the day, what matters is the total wattage of your panels instead of the individual wattage of the panels in the system. Different panel wattages only mean you need more lower-wattage solar panels to generate the same amount of energy as a few higher-wattage panels.
Take a look at the table below that has how many Renogy panels of each wattage you need to build a 4.5kW solar system.
What can I run on a 4.5 kW solar system?
If the total wattage of your solar panel system is 4500W, you can generate anywhere between 13500Wh and 31500Wh of energy in the US.
The 31.kWh is generated in states like Arizona and California which can get 7 peak sun hours. In contrast, 13.5kWh is generated in areas like Pennsylvania and Massachusetts that get a low 3 peak sun hours.
Using the minimum 13500Wh as our guide post, which is about a third of the average energy used by a US household. We see that we can power almost any device that’s below 3000W depending on the inverter’s size.
Here’s a table with common household devices, their wattages, and how long a 13500Wh energy capacity can power that device.
With the right adjustments and conservation methods, a 4.5kW solar system should be able to power your home.
If you live in areas like Pennsylvania, Alaska, and Connecticut that get low peak sun hours, additional supply from the grid might be needed. That being said, the 4500W system can still reduce your power utility bills significantly.
If you live in areas like California, Arizona, and other areas that get at least 5.5 peak sun hours, it’s possible to power all the devices in an average US household as if it was on the grid. However, it’s recommended that you don’t use high-wattage devices like stoves on your solar circuit due to their high energy demand from your batteries.
How much does a 4.5 kW solar system cost in 2022?
Below you will find a table containing the costs of 4.5kW solar systems composed of different panel wattages. The individual panel wattages range from 100W to 550W, which is typically the range suitable for fixed rooftop or ground installations.
Our calculations are done using the default list prices, so you can take advantage of our promotions to get a sizable discount during your purchase.
If you look at the above table closely, you find that the Renogy 320W Monocrystalline Solar Panel offers the perfect blend of size, cost, and the number of panels.
Do note that the listed in the table above do not include the cost of the inverter, battery pack, charge controller, and other accessories needed for a solar installation. You will need to buy these items separately if you are not purchasing a pre-matched solar kit.
For the inverter, it’s wiser to buy an inverter charger that combines the features of both an inverter and a converter. An inverter charger not only powers your home, but also charges your battery using the grid supply. Some inverter chargers also have a built-in charge controller for solar panel charging.
We recommend buying an inverter-battery set consisting of one 3000W 12V PSW Inverter Charger and three 12V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries. This set costs approximately 3,000 but could be much lower due to our buyer discounts. Alternatively, you could opt for more affordable AGM or Gel batteries of equal voltage and capacity.
Altogether, a 4.5kW solar power system with 14 320W panels, 1 3000W 12V inverter charger and 3 12V 100Ah batteries can cost around 8,600. This value can be lower or higher depending on your final purchasing decisions.
Your Best Bet. Renogy Solar
As one of the leading manufacturers in the solar industry, Renogy prides itself on delivering quality products that will last you a long time. That’s why we have robust policies, warranties and community to help you in case you are not satisfied with a Renogy product.
Renogy offers all the products. components, and accessories you need to set up a working solar installation today.
We also have 400Ah 12V batteries and 48V solar systems that are blazing a trail forward for efficient solar technology for today and tomorrow.
Our high-quality solar devices continue to receive positive reviews from previous buyers and independent reviewers on different platforms.
To learn more about our products and promotions, visit our homepage or contact us.
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Solar Panel Cost in Tennessee (2023 Local Savings Guide)
Here’s a quick look at the estimated cost of solar in Tennessee:
- Average Cost Per Watt: 2.49
- Cost of Average System: 22,111
- Cost of Energy Without Solar: 49,568
- Payback Period: 13 Years
- Lifetime Savings of Going Solar: 19,688
Average system size is calculated using data from the Energy Information Administration. This price is after tax credit. Payback period is calculated assuming the system is purchased in cash.
Each product and or company featured here has been independently selected by the writer. You can learn more about our review methodology here. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Written by Karsten Neumeister
Karsten is an editor and energy specialist focused on environmental, social and cultural development. His work has been shared by sources including NPR, the World Economic Forum, Marketwatch and the SEIA, and he is certified in ESG with the CFA Institute. Before joining EcoWatch, Karsten worked in the solar energy sector, studying energy policy, climate tech and environmental education. A lover of music and the outdoors, Karsten might be found rock climbing, canoeing or writing songs when away from the workplace. Learn About This Person
Reviewed by Melissa Smith
Melissa is an avid writer, scuba diver, backpacker and all-around outdoor enthusiast. She graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in journalism and sustainability studies. Before joining EcoWatch, Melissa worked as the managing editor of Scuba Diving magazine and the communications manager of The Ocean Agency, a nonprofit that’s featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Chasing Coral. Learn About This Person
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Cost of Solar Panels in Tennessee
The average cost of solar panels in Tennessee is 2.49 per watt, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2.66 per watt. That means that it’s likely more affordable to install solar energy projects in Tennessee compared to most other states. Plus, solar panel have fallen 4% in Tennessee over the last five years and will likely keep falling as renewable energy alternatives become popular.
Our data shows that the typical Tennessee homeowner installs a 12-kilowatt (kW) solar energy system. Plugging the figure above (2.49 per watt) into our solar calculator, we found the average homeowner can expect to pay about 29,880 for a 12-kW solar panel system in Tennessee. Note that this figure is before any solar tax credits are applied.
Also, the numbers in this article are averages for the entire state of Tennessee. Solar panel costs may be different for residents who live in more populous cities, like Nashville or Memphis.
Shine Solar, LLC
Outstanding Regional Installer
LightWave Solar
Outstanding Local Installer
Solar Panel System Installation Cost in Tennessee
Based on the company you choose and the size of the solar system needed to power your home, we’ve estimated that the average solar panel installation in Tennessee would cost between 22,400 and 37,400. These figures drop to between 15,687 and 26,145 after applying the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), also known as the federal solar tax credit.
The table below shows the average for a solar panel system in Tennessee before and after the 30% federal tax credit:
| Size of Solar Panel System | Tennessee Solar Panel Cost | Cost After Federal Tax Credit |
| 9 kW | 22,410 | 15,687 |
| 10 kW | 24,900 | 17,430 |
| 11 kW | 27,390 | 19,173 |
| 12 kW | 29,880 | 20,916 |
| 13 kW | 32,370 | 22,659 |
| 14 kW | 34,860 | 24,402 |
| 15 kW | 37,350 | 26,145 |
Interested to see our picks for the best solar companies in Tennessee that offer affordable, high-quality systems? Click here.
What Determines the Cost of Solar Panels in Tennessee?
The actual price you’ll pay for your solar panel system in Tennessee can vary quite a lot. Smaller or more efficient homes that require more modest systems might only require a 5 kW system, which would average around 8,892 after the federal tax credit is applied.
On the other hand, a Tennessee home that has high energy needs could require a 15 kW system, which averages out to 26,145 after the ITC (investment tax credit) is applied.
Below, we’ll discuss some of the more significant factors that can affect your solar system costs in Tennessee to give you a better idea of where your price will fall.
Solar Equipment
The type and size of your solar system will always be a major factor in determining your overall cost of going solar. In Tennessee, homeowners can expect around 207 sunny days per year, which is just a touch above the national average of 205 sunny days annually. Unlike in areas where sunlight is scarce homeowners in Tennessee don’t need the highest efficiency panels (which tend to be more expensive) so costs are a bit lower here than in other states.
Tennessee does get its fair share of extreme weather including tropical storms, tropical cyclones (mostly residual effects), extreme thunderstorms and tornadoes. Many homeowners opt for solar batteries in an effort to avoid power outages, which are relatively common in the area. Solar batteries will provide power through blackouts, but they can add thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars to your solar equipment costs.
Of course, the equipment brand you choose will have an impact on your cost as well. Tennessee homeowners have many choices of solar brands, including top-tier options like SunPower/Maxeon and Panasonic that are more costly and lower-tier, less expensive options like Canadian Solar and Silfab. Given the abundance of sunlight in Tennessee, choosing less-costly panels with lower efficiency is an easy way to save money on your installation.
Solar Financing in Tennessee
How you pay for your solar system will affect your up-front and overall costs. If you choose to pay in cash, you’ll lay out the most up-front but will have the least total cost long term because you’ll avoid paying interest. Most homeowners opt for solar loans, though, and the options you’ll have for financing can also have an impact on your cost of going solar.
Since solar power is still a budding industry in Tennessee, there are few state-funded financing options available and relatively few financing incentives offered. However, residents have access to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s (TDEC) Clean Energy Financing. This program helps promote solar financing options and makes them more affordable for Tennessee homeowners.
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) is also available, but only for businesses and agricultural producers.
Tennessee Solar Installation Company
Every solar installation company can upcharge for equipment and will typically have company-specific pricing for the labor involved in installing your solar equipment, so companies installing the same panels and/or solar batteries can charge different prices. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, there are 41 solar installers in Tennessee, and which you choose will affect your cost of going solar.
Some of the top solar installers in Tennessee include Shine Solar LLC, LightWave Solar, SunPower, Greene Tech Renewable Energy and ADT Solar. Opting for a local company like Greene Tech or LightWave will generally be more expensive, as smaller companies are less likely to buy equipment in bulk and pass the savings on to you. However, they sometimes offer discounts to compete with large companies like SunPower, Shine Solar and ADT.
The panel brands offered by your solar installer also matter. For example, SunPower only installs panels from its sister company, Maxeon. These panels are considered the best and most efficient in the industry, but they come at above-average in Tennessee. LightWave Solar, a company local to Tennessee, carries multiple brands including LG, Tesla, SunPower and SolarEdge. You can choose more affordable panels through this company to match your power needs and your budget.
Additional Considerations and Costs
There are some other minor factors in Tennessee that can influence your total solar system cost as well, and while these will have less of an impact on your costs, you should consider them before committing to installing solar. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
- Permits: All states and municipalities have their own laws governing solar panel permits. For example, laws restrict ground-mounted panels in flood zones throughout Tennessee, mandate building permits and inspections by the building department in your town or city and require that systems conform to all local zoning codes — although much of Tennessee doesn’t have specific zoning codes for properties.
- Licenses: The State of Tennessee requires that all solar contractors and installation companies be properly licensed by the Tennessee Department of Commerce Insurance. While this doesn’t represent a cost to you, it can drive up the overall price of hiring contractors as more restrictions and fees add to their costs.
- Warranties: Most solar panel systems come with warranties, which is great news considering you’ll be spending thousands on your equipment. Generally speaking, longer and more comprehensive warranties like the one from SunPower are better, although better warranty coverage tends to mean slightly higher prices.
- HOAs: Some states have laws that prevent homeowners’ associations from denying solar panel installations. Unfortunately, the current legislation in Tennessee doesn’t guarantee homeowners the right to install solar, so stubborn HOAs can deny your request.
- Environmental zoning: Tennessee does have some zoning ordinances that could prevent you from installing solar panels. However, zoning regulations are relatively lax in Tennessee, so few homeowners should have any issue at all with environmental zoning.
Tennessee Solar Incentives
Tennessee is not one of the top states for solar. but solar panels are becoming increasingly popular in the state. It could be because residents are seeking energy independence from utility companies, or perhaps they’re interested in lowering their utility bills.
Whatever your reason for making the switch to clean energy alternatives, we want you to get the maximum reward. Unfortunately, Tennessee doesn’t have a ton of great state incentives for going solar, but we’ve outlined some of the financial incentives available below:
| Tennessee Solar Incentive | How it Affects the Cost of Solar Panels in Tennessee |
| Green Energy Property Tax Assessment | A special “ad valorem property tax assessment” for green energy producers. It’s not quite a tax exemption, but rather a fancy way of saying there’s a limit to how much property tax can be placed on a residential solar photovoltaic system. That limit is 12.5% of the total cost of the system. |
| Net Metering in Tennessee | Tennessee does not offer statewide net metering and does not have standardized interconnection rules. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) offered a dual-metering option for participants in its Green Power Providers program, but it looks like they’re not accepting any new applicants at the moment. |
| Local Solar Rebates Incentives | There are a handful of local utilities that offer energy efficiency rebates and solar companies are capable of carrying out those installations. For instance, the Knoxville Utilities Board offers 400 rebates for electric vehicle (EV) charger installations. Check out DSIRE to see if your utility offers any applicable incentives to your home solar system. |
| Federal Solar Tax Credit | The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a tax incentive that allows solar adopters to claim 30% of their total solar equipment and installation costs as a tax credit on their next federal filing. The 30% credit is in effect for any solar project purchased through 2032. The tax credit is set to decrease to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034 before it disappears in 2035. |
| Sales Tax Credit for Clean Energy Technology | This is only for commercial solar installations. but it allows taxpayers to take a credit, to apply for a refund of taxes paid, or to apply for authority to make tax-exempt purchases for solar equipment in a certified green energy production facility. |
Best Solar Panel Brands and Installed Solar System Costs in 2023
As mentioned above, the solar panel brand you choose can have a significant impact on your total system cost. Generally speaking, higher quality panels and those with higher levels of efficiency and better warranties will cost more on a per-watt basis, leading to higher overall costs. The table below provides some relative pricing for the top solar panel brands in Tennessee to give you a general idea of which brands are likely to fit your budget.
| Solar Panel Brand | Average Cost Per Watt (-) |
| LG Solar | |
| Canadian Solar | |
| JA Solar | |
| Mission Solar | |
| Panasonic | |
| Q Cells | |
| REC | |
| Silfab | |
| SunPower | |
| Tesla | |
| Trina Solar |
Ready to see what size system you need and how much it will cost? Check out our preferred solar providers in Tennessee below to get a free quote for your renewable energy system, with no obligation.