Cost of solar panels in Edmonton, Calgary and Alberta.
The million dollar question everyone wants to know. what do solar panels cost?
The cost of installing solar panels on your home or business will depend on many factors, such as your desired capacity (how many modules you want), your location, and your existing electrical infrastructure to name a few. Each of which will greatly affect the long-term economics of solar power. Installing solar panels in Edmonton, Calgary, or anywhere in Western/Northern Canada is incredibly viable and cost effective.
The cost of solar panels in Alberta and Canada has seen dramatic decreases in recent years. effective installation techniques, government incentives, and technological innovations steadily drive the price of solar panels down.
Kuby Energy does not offer standard ‘packages’. we design all solar power systems custom to meet you architecture and budget. The best way to learn how much your solar panels will cost is to contact us. we offer free appraisals, and will look for ways to save you money.
What do Solar Panels Cost?
Everyone’s lifestyle, home, and desires are unique so there is no set system cost. Thankfully, its now more affordable than ever to install solar panels in Alberta. The average cost to install solar panels is roughly 10,000 to 16,000, which will provide all your engineering, material, labour, and permitting. Additionally you may be eligible for solar power rebates and/or system financing, further dropping your investment in solar power.
Edmonton Solar Power Rebate
The City of Edmonton currently offers a rebate for the lesser of 40% of system costs, 0.40/W or 4,000. The rebate is available for a limited time only.
Solar Energy Rebates
New solar power rebates, grants and incentives are constantly being released. Depending on what province you live in, you may be eligible for different rebates.
Solar Payment Options
Everyone’s lifestyle, home, and desires are unique. Because of this, we design every project custom to your needs. Thanks to continuous innovations in the solar energy industry it is now more affordable than ever to install solar panels.
Through ATB Financial, you can select from a number of payment options depending on your preference.
The average homeowner can get started for as little as:
Are Solar Panels Worth It?
Lexie came from HomeAdvisor and Angi (formerly Angie’s list) and is responsible for writing and editing articles over a wide variety of home-related topics. She has almost four years’ experience in the home improvement space.
We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Home. Commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
Table of Contents
It seems like solar panels are popping up on everyone’s roofs these days. Even neighbors you might never expect are taking the solar plunge. With this burst of interest (and government incentives), many folks are wondering, “are solar panels worth it?”
That’s just what we’ll take a look at in this article. We’ll discuss some of the most important points to consider when deciding if solar is the right choice for your home, or if it’s just an expensive trend. Keep reading to find out if solar panels are worth it for you.
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
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How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels aren’t new technology, but they still have a Cloud of mystery surrounding how they work. The good news is that they aren’t all that complicated.
Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells. When faced toward sunlight, these cells collect the sun’s energy and transform it into electrical charges. During this process, photons (the light particles) knock electrons off of atoms, creating an electric flow.
The electricity produced by this process is direct current, or “DC.” The problem is that our electrical systems use alternating current, or “AC.” For this reason, solar systems require inverters to turn DC into usable AC electricity. This inverter is installed between the solar panels and the home’s electrical system.
In some cases, the solar system may feed a bank of batteries, allowing the home to store electricity overnight or when cloudy conditions prevent effective electric production. In other cases, the system may wire directly into the home’s grid, allowing the user to back feed energy to the utility company, often for a profit.
Depending on the size of the system, a solar system like the one described above can significantly lower a homeowner’s utility bill. In some cases, the system’s production may even offset the bill completely. This depends on many factors, however, and these factors may determine whether solar is worth it or not.
Which Homes Benefit the Most From Solar Panels?
Certain homes benefit from solar more than others. When making a large upfront investment (up to 25,000 in some cases), it’s important to know if the home in question will be able to take full advantage of solar. Much of this has to do with the alignment of their roof in relation to the southern sky.
Speaking specifically for homes in North America, homes with a south-facing roof section are much better candidates for solar than those with east- and west-facing roofs. Also, homes without tall trees or buildings blocking the sky to their south will benefit more from solar than those next to tall buildings or butted up against forests on their southern side.
When Are Solar Panels Worth It?
There are certainly times when solar panels are worth it. It does depend on a few factors, however.
Location
The location matters. The closer a home is to the equator, the stronger the sun’s intensity will be, and the more potential energy the solar system can create. These homes will see a greater benefit in terms of energy production than homes in the more northern latitudes.
Also, consider the utility company. Homes in states where electricity is more expensive (California, Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York, for example) will benefit more from solar panels than those where electricity is relatively cheap (Louisiana, Washington, Oregon and North Carolina).
Federal, Local and State-Level Tax Incentives
Certain incentive programs may make installing solar panels worth the investment. For instance, folks who install solar panels between 2022 and 2032 may be able to take advantage of a dollar-for-dollar solar tax credit of up to 30% of the system’s overall cost. Depending on the cost of the system and the taxpayer’s finances, this could be reason enough to consider it.
Second, many states and counties are offering similar credits, rebates or exemptions. For instance, New York (one of the most expensive states in which to purchase electricity) offers dollar-per-watt rebates, up to 5,000 in a tax deduction, sales tax exemptions and credits back on utility bills for producing more wattage than consumed.
Energy Bills and Consumption
The two main points of a solar system are to reduce the homeowner’s dependence on non-renewable electricity and lower their energy bills. In most cases, a solar panel system can reduce the homeowner’s electricity usage, reducing their energy bill.
But, in ideal conditions, the best solar panel system may actually make the homeowner money. As the system produces more electricity than the home uses, the homeowners may be able to sell the extra wattage to the utility company for a few dollars each month. While it’s unlikely to completely offset the cost of the bill and the installation, it’s money coming into the home that wasn’t before.
Property Value
Solar panels will make your home more affordable to maintain over time and energy efficient, and they can positively impact your property’s value. Depending on your location, the quality of the installation and local market conditions, the impact solar panels will have on property value will vary. However, you’ll also want to consider that the impact on property value may not be immediate. The long-term savings on electricity bills can offset the initial solar panel installation cost, making them a wise investment for many homeowners.
Environmental Impact
It’s no secret that solar panels are great for the environment. Since solar panels generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gasses or requiring the extraction, transportation or combustion of fossil fuels, solar panels have the lowest environmental impact compared to other forms of energy production. Although the production and disposal of solar panels have some environmental impact, using solar power instead of fossil fuels or other forms of energy production will certainly lessen pollution and environmental degradation.
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
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How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
There are a few factors that affect the cost of solar panel s, such as the type and model, the size of your installation and where you live. Therefore, the national average is around 16,000. but it can range anywhere from 3,500 to 35,000. However, it’s important to note that solar panels can save you money over time by generating your own electricity. These savings typically offset the solar panel’s initial installation costs. It’s also worth noting that there are often government incentives and tax credits available for homeowners who install solar panels.
Potential Benefits of a Solar Panel System
There are quite a few potential benefits of a solar panel system that may make the decision easier for some folks.
Increased Home Value
Solar panel systems can increase a home’s value, boosting profit during resale or allowing the homeowner to borrow a bit more in a refinance. How much the system increases the value will depend on the system’s size, but some experts believe that the home’s value increases by 20 for every 1 saved in yearly utility bills.
Decreased Pricing Fluctuation
Utility companies are famous for adjusting their pricing. And, since solar panel systems reduce the homeowner’s dependence on the electric company’s supply, the homeowner will be less susceptible to price fluctuations. Even if the solar panel system does take the home off the grid completely, a more predictable energy bill is a significant benefit.
Preparedness
In systems designed for energy storage (such as those with battery banks), homes with solar panel systems may be better prepared for natural disasters and grid outages. For instance, if the grid’s power goes out in a storm, the residents can use the stored energy from the batteries until the supply comes back on. And, as soon as the sun comes back out, the batteries will recharge.
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Potential Drawbacks of a Solar Panel System
It’s not all butterflies and daisies, though. There are certain potential drawbacks that could send some homeowners running from a solar panel installation.
Upfront Costs
While the tax benefits abound, homeowners will still have to pay the upfront costs for installing their solar panel system. can range from just a few thousand dollars to up to 25,000 or more for a system. This obviously depends on size and complexity, but those are costs that the homeowner will have to come up with themselves.
For those interested in leasing solar panels to lessen the upfront costs, this may be a solid plan. Just note that leasing often means not being able to take advantage of tax benefits.
Maintenance
Many solar panel systems are designed to last 20 years or more without a reduction in function, but there are certain maintenance items that the homeowner will need to consider. For instance, the panels may need annual or semi-annual cleaning to preserve their efficiency. Also, if the roof underneath the panels needs care or replacement, the panels can significantly add to the cost.
THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
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Appearance
While solar panels are becoming more popular and less noticeable, they’re still not some homeowners’ cup of tea. Many folks don’t like the way solar panels look, and for historical preservation societies, they could be against bylaws.
There could be a solution for both of these scenarios, however. Installing an off-roof system on a set of racks or mounts away from the home is an option, just note that this will add to the cost of the project in terms of hardware, cables and design.
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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I install my own solar panels?
Most of the components involved in installing solar panels are relatively simple. Prefabricated parts that simply need assembly make up the majority of the system, and most of the wiring on the roof is plug-and-play. However, tying the panel wiring into the home is a bit more complicated, so DIYers should do their research before attempting their installation. Alternatively the best solar companies usually offer quick, professional, fuss-free installation if you don’t want to DIY.
Do solar panels increase property taxes?
Solar panel systems can increase a home’s value, which would appear to increase property taxes. However, since many local lawmakers allow for tax credits or deductions, they’ll have help offsetting or reducing the tax bill.
Can a house run on solar power alone?
Depending on the size of your house, how much energy it consumes and how much power your solar panels can generate, you would be able to run your home on solar powers alone. However, the right battery storage system is also necessary to ensure a constant supply of electricity, especially during periods of low sunlight.
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels can last for 25 to 30 years. With proper installation, maintenance and timely repairs, you can help to extend their lifespan.
How many solar panels do I need?
The size of your home and the amount of energy you’ll need to power your home will determine how many solar panels you’ll need to install. For example, let’s say your home is roughly 1500 square feet. You’ll probably need between 15 and 18 solar panels to cover the energy needs of that space.
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How Much Do Industrial Solar Panels Cost?
Home / Blog / How Much Do Industrial Solar Panels Cost?
The cost of industrial solar power is essential in determining its economic viability. For any business or industry, evaluating the costs and benefits of switching to solar power is crucial. If the cost of industrial solar power is too high, it may not be feasible for businesses to adopt it.
By determining the cost of industrial solar power, businesses can assess the potential savings they can achieve by switching to solar power. In some cases, the cost of solar power may be lower than that of traditional electricity, resulting in significant cost savings over the long term.
In addition, governments often provide subsidies for the installation of solar power systems, and the cost of solar power can impact the level of government support businesses may be eligible for. By determining the cost of solar power, businesses can evaluate the potential subsidies and tax incentives they may receive.
Typically, before tax subsidies and rebates, the cost of commercial solar panels is approximately 2.87 per watt, with costs varying from 2.50 to 3.22 per watt. However, this cost depends on certain factors and can be increased and decreased.
How much does Industrial Solar Panels Save On Energy Cost?
The cost we mentioned above is exceptionally steep, and you may wonder if investing in an industrial solar panel is a wise decision or not. The answer to this question depends on your current energy bill and whether you need to reduce the cost.
Industrial solar panels always make a good idea if your company pays a high price for electricity bill every month. A solar panel system is projected to enable commercial settings to reduce energy costs by about 75%.
An industrial solar panel system will undoubtedly be beneficial if you pay an average of 1,000 a month for electricity. Your monthly savings would be roughly 750, translating to a 250 reduction in energy costs.
You would save 9,000 in a year. That’s a substantial sum of money that can help you pay off the cost of your solar panels in three to seven years. But, if your monthly electric expenditure is less than 300, installing an industrial solar system may be worthwhile.
Your bill drops to 75, but you will only save around 2700 yearly. Even if you are still saving money, it will take you significantly longer to pay off the cost of your solar panels.
Cost of Installing an Industrial Solar Power System
Nationwide average for industrial solar panels are predicted to range between 1.45 to 1.56 per watt in 2021 by the SEIA (Solar Energy Industries Association) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
The actual cost of an industrial solar system per watt often varies, and these figures represent national averages. The price is expressed in kilowatts of direct current and includes what a solar contractor costs for installation, inverters, solar modules, design, etc. (kWdc).
Commercial solar investment is less expensive than residential solar in dollars per watt. This is due to economies of scale, which occur when solar energy is purchased for larger commercial installations.
The project’s size significantly impacts how much it will cost to install an industrial solar system. Greentech Media gave this estimate for commercial and utility-scale installations in 2019:
- Commercial solar system costs between 1.54 and 1.56 per watt.
- Utility-scale solar costs range from 0.99 to 1.03 per watt.
The “all-in” cost of solar power per watt for an industrial solar system is around 1.75. The typical price of an industrial solar system depends on how many kilowatts you require to meet your energy needs. Commercial solar panels typically cost about 325,000, with average costs in the US ranging between 50,000 and 600,000.
Also, remember that the larger your commercial solar power system is, the higher the cost will be. But there are many ways you can keep this cost down. One way is to choose a reputable solar power installing company that is experienced with large-scale industrial installations.
Purchasing pre-assembled solar panels is an additional option. They are less expensive than purchasing the components separately and putting them together yourself.
The solar panels type you select for your business will also significantly impact how much your solar panels will cost. Solar panels come in two basic varieties: monocrystalline and polycrystalline.
Although monocrystalline panels are substantially more expensive than polycrystalline panels, they produce more energy. Whatever solar power system you opt for, the installation costs now are considerably lower than ever.
Industrial Solar Power Cost Factors
Because of real estate considerations and tax advantages like the ITC, every industrial solar power project has a unique upfront cost and lifetime cost. As shown below, you can calculate the price of your industrial solar power using a free program called PV Watts.
Your industrial solar power is calculated by 4 PV Watts using a cost factor that takes the following into account:
- Geographic location
- Efficiency and loss parameters for solar panels
- The azimuth of the roof,
- The number of hours of sunlight each day
- The amount of power used annually.
- The price per kWh of electricity you pay
You should also consider your tax preferences and the building’s ownership or lease structure. You can benefit from community solar without owning a system if you rent a building or area.
Determining Commercial Solar Cost Using PV Watts
The size and location of your solar system greatly influence the cost of commercial solar panels. PV Watts makes it simple to calculate how much sunlight your building receives. NREL created PV Watts to calculate the energy output and cost of PV (photovoltaic) energy installations around the globe.
To determine how much sunlight your commercial building gets every day, PV Watts uses the address of your facility and weather information. Type your building’s address into PV Watts’ “Input a house or business address” area and follow the instructions to determine the cost of your industrial solar power system.
Efficiency Factors of Commercial Solar Power System
Most solar panels have an efficiency of 15% to 20%. If the day is clear and it is at high noon, the sun’s energy strikes the Earth’s surface at approximately 1,000 watts per square meter. PV Watt defaults to using these 1,000 watts per square meter criterion.
So, at 15-20% efficiency, a 1 square meter commercial solar panel will generate 150-200W of electric power per square meter under ideal circumstances. The solar panel array drawn using PV Watts on your roof will be square meters.
As previously mentioned, PV Watts offers three different kinds of solar panels, each with a different efficiency rating.
- Standard: 15% efficiency (crystalline silicon/glass)
- High-end (crystalline silicon with an anti-reflective coating): 19% effectiveness
- Thin Film: 10% efficiency (thin film/glass).
Industries Can Pay Off Solar Power System Cost Fast With Tax Credits
Thanks to fantastic tax benefits and incentives, the cost of an industrial solar power system pays you back more quickly than ever before.
Federal Tax Credit
The general tax credit will reduce the price of industrial solar power system installation by up to 30% for new installers.
State Tax Credit
A 10% credit is also available in some jurisdictions to aid with the cost of business solar panels.
Accelerated Deprecation
Owners of commercial buildings are permitted to deduct from their business taxes up to 85% of the entire cost of their solar system. This offers a significant means of offsetting the high price of industrial solar panels.
Solar Power Benefits for Business and Industries
- Dependable and maintenance-free
- Instant return on investment
- Lower carbon footprint
- Lock-in power cost for years
- Reduce electricity expenses
- Companies can receive significant tax rebates
- Reduce reliance on utility power
- Give back to the community
- Save thousands per month on electricity costs
- Attract more clients by demonstrating their commitment to sustainability.
- Low monthly payments and no-money-down financing are available
Industrial Solar Power System– How Coldwell Solar Can Help?
A reputed solar power provider such as Coldwell Solar can help your business with the installation of commercial solar panels in several ways. The solar power provider has been in the industry for years and can help you conduct a thorough site assessment to determine the best location for solar panels and evaluate the available space, shading, and orientation.
Based on the site assessment, the provider can also design a solar power system that meets the specific energy needs of the business. Coldwell Solar has become the first choice of many businesses for procuring high-quality solar panels and other necessary components at a competitive price.
They can also handle the installation of the solar panel system, ensuring that it is installed safely and efficiently. If you need ongoing maintenance and support, the solar power provider can ensure that your solar panel operates efficiently and generates maximum.
They also offer additional energy management services to help your company optimize energy usage and reduce energy costs. These services may include energy audits, energy-efficient lighting upgrades, and energy management software.
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 Tesla Solar Panels Cost For Your Home
A top EV car maker, Tesla is understandably synonymous with renewable technology. But its eco-friendly product line is not limited to cars as Tesla also offers solar panels. Knowing Tesla’s high-end luxury status, it’s natural to wonder, how much do Tesla solar panels cost for your home?
Solar panels are a major investment, so it makes sense to do your research. You’re not only paying for the solar panel itself, but you must also account for racking equipment, performance monitoring equipment, and inverters. Plus, you might want to purchase an energy store system too.
How much does all of this cost? Our handy guide will provide you with the answers.
A Brief History of Tesla Solar Panels
Tesla first ventured into the solar panel industry by acquiring SolarCity in 2016. The company aimed to streamline battery storage and solar panel manufacturing. Although Tesa successfully retained SolarCity’s marketing infrastructure and sales, it could not produce solar panels per demand.
That’s when Tesla partnered with Panasonic in its NewYork gigafactory. Panasonic provided solar cells for Tesla’s solar roof tiles and panels in this partnership. The collaboration allowed Tesla to substantially reduce its manufacturing costs and eventually lower the cost of its solar products.
But this partnership came to an end in 2020 due to low product demand from Tesla. Panasonic still produces solar batteries for the company’s electric vehicles and Tesla Powerwalls. But the solar cell side of the partnership has ended.
Tesla then started getting third-party-manufactured solar panels from companies like Q Cells, a Korean solar giant. Later, Tesla introduced two lines of self-manufacturer solar panels for residential spaces.
Currently, there are two Tesla solar panel lines for residential installation, namely the S-series and the H-series. Check out their specifications and performance warranties in the table below.
| Solar Panel Model | Power Output | Efficiency | Product Warranty | Performance Warranty (25-year) |
| Tesla T395H | 395W | 20.1% | 25 years | 86% |
| Tesla T400H | 400W | 20.4% | 25 years | 86% |
| Tesla T405H | 405W | 20.6% | 25 years | 86% |
| Tesla T420S | 420W | 19.3% | 25 years | 86% |
| Tesla T425S | 425W | 19.6% | 25 years | 86% |
| Tesla T430S | 430W | 19.8% | 25 years | 86% |
The federal government introduced Investment Tax Credit (ITC) in 2006 to give tax relief to those who invest in solar energy systems. Homeowners that buy a solar energy system get a Federal Solar Tax Credit. They can use this credit on their federal income taxes to reduce their total liability.
In 2021, this tax credit was 26%, but it has been increased to 30%. The federal tax credit covers 30% of the following:
- Solar equipment costs, such as mounting hardware, wiring, and inverters
- Solar panel costs
- Labor costs
- Inspection and permitting fees
- Storage equipment costs (for batteries with at least 3kWh capacity rating)
Besides federal incentives, you may also get state incentives. Check the State Incentives for Renewables Efficiency database to learn more. Some states also offer upfront rebates when you install a solar power system. However, these rebates may only be available as long as the state has funds.
You should check your state’s rebates to get incentives before they run out. These rebates can lower solar panel purchase and installation costs by 10% to 20%.
Other Incentives
Besides rebates and tax credits, you may also get other incentives. We explain them below.
- Local Utility Rebates: Some local utilities incentivize homeowners to install solar energy systems. For instance, you might get rebates on your energy bill depending on the energy production of your solar panels. Similarly, some localities offer one-time subsidies to homeowners who want to install solar energy systems.
- Tax Exemptions: Solar panel installation increases your home’s value and price. But most municipalities do not include this additional value when calculating property taxes. Some states also give you sales tax exemptions for purchasing solar panels.
- Subsidized Loans: Check if your local utility or state offers subsidized loans to finance your solar panel purchase. Some non-government organizations may also provide such loans to homeowners.
As you can see, a couple of things determine the final Tesla solar panels cost. Make sure you do your research and discuss all options with a local installer before making a final decision.
Tesla Solar Panels Cost: Financing Options
The average cost of solar panel installation is 16,000 but can be as high as 35,000. That’s a lot of money to spend upfront. Here are some financing options to cover Tesla solar panels cost.
Tesla Solar Loan
Tesla solar panel financing covers the entire cost of purchase and installation. This offer is not available for commercial, business, or trust organizations.
Plus, Tesla solar loan is only available to residents in these states:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- Nevada
- New York
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Vermont
- Washington
Customers should apply for credit the day their solar panel payment is confirmed. If approved, your acceptance will be valid for 180 days. You can make payments through your phone or online.
You have to make your first payment 35 days from the PTO (Permission to Operate) date and make monthly payments on the same date from then on. Learn more here.
Cash
While paying a huge amount upfront is daunting for some, cash payments are the most beneficial. For one, you don’t have to pay interest on top of your solar panel purchase. Second, you only get federal tax incentives and rebates right away if you pay for the solar panels in cash.
Solar Leases or Power Purchase Agreements (PPA)
Some states offer PPA (Power Purchase Agreements) that allow homeowners to lease solar panels. While some PPAs have a set rate, others have a payment schedule with annual increments.
The downside to PPAs is that you do not own the solar panels; a third party does. You make payments to the third party for a set period.
Home Equity Loans
Using your home equity can help you finance Tesla solar panels. In this case, your home is the collateral for the loan. You’re only eligible if there’s enough equity in your home to get the loan amount.
Since home equity loans have single-digit APRs, they’re more affordable than personal loans. The repayment payment can range from 15 to 20 years, depending on your preference.
Tesla Solar Panels Cost vs. Tesla Solar Roofs Cost
Besides solar panels, Tesla offers solar roofs with 24/7 outage protection and a 25-year tile warranty. Because roofs have more components, such as flashing and underlayment, they cost more than solar panels.
Consumer Reports says solar roofs should typically cost 24.50 per square foot to be more cost-competitive than regular roofs. Tesla’s solar roofs meet the criteria, costing 21.85 per square foot on average.
The cost of a Tesla solar roof can vary depending on the number of solar tiles you choose. For instance, homes with higher energy needs will require more solar tiles than those with fewer needs or occupants.
Like solar panels, Tesla also has a calculator for estimating solar roof costs. Type your home address and average electricity bill in this calculator, and Tesla will give you an estimate based on your information.
Forbes estimated the cost of a 1,000-square-foot single-story roof with 6.31kW of power to be 46,425. The figure also includes 1 Powerwall. The cost of a 2,000-square-foot roof with 12.57kW power and 2 Powerwalls is 64,193.
Evidently, even the cheapest Tesla solar roof is more expensive than the company’s solar panels. As mentioned earlier, Tesla solar panels cost 20,147 to 39,441, depending on their size.
Large systems with 36 panels are cheaper than installing a whole solar roof. Even better, this price does not account for the tax incentives and rebate discounts.
Wrapping Up
Tesla Solar is an option for those switching to clean energy. Regardless of the quotes Tesla provides, you have to account for the equipment rates, incentives, and tax rebates in your state to calculate the total cost of installing a solar energy system. Costs vary depending on your location and home energy needs.
How Much Do Tesla Solar Panels Cost For Your Home FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is Tesla Powerwall worth it?
Tesla Powerwall is a decent investment as it lets you get the most out of your solar energy system. The system stores power for usage at night.
How many solar panels are enough to power a home?
An average home requires 17 to 21 panels for enough energy production to offset their whole electric bill.
How much do Tesla solar panels cost?
Tesla solar panels cost between 20,147 to 39,441 before state and federal incentives.
Does Tesla offer a warranty for solar panels?
Tesla solar panels come with a guarantee that they will retain 80% of their power capacity for 25 years. During this period, Tesla processes customer claims and performs eligible repairs for zero labor costs.
How long do Tesla solar panels last?
Like all reputed companies, Tesla solar panels also last 25 to 30 years. You reach the break-even point for this investment at the end of about six to 10 years.