Allie is an Austin-based writer in the sustainability, home improvement, and real estate niches. Throughout her career, she has taken on the trials and errors of many landscaping, gardening, and other DIY home improvement projects. Allie’s goal is to give others the tools to feel empowered in their home improvement decisions — whether they embark on a DIY project, want to know how much a project might cost, or need the best local professional services.
Nick has seven years of experience in the home improvement industry. He started his career marketing for dozens of flooring providers and related home services across North America. Today, he is a freelance writer and regular contributor to several publications specializing in home topics. Nick’s work includes DIY guides, informational articles and financial content, all of which aim to demystify unfamiliar subjects for homeowners and build their confidence.
Allie is an Austin-based writer in the sustainability, home improvement, and real estate niches. Throughout her career, she has taken on the trials and errors of many landscaping, gardening, and other DIY home improvement projects. Allie’s goal is to give others the tools to feel empowered in their home improvement decisions — whether they embark on a DIY project, want to know how much a project might cost, or need the best local professional services.
Nick has seven years of experience in the home improvement industry. He started his career marketing for dozens of flooring providers and related home services across North America. Today, he is a freelance writer and regular contributor to several publications specializing in home topics. Nick’s work includes DIY guides, informational articles and financial content, all of which aim to demystify unfamiliar subjects for homeowners and build their confidence.
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Remi, a dedicated advocate for clean energy, specializes in finding innovative ways to help everyone embrace solar and reduce their carbon footprint. With a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder, he is a research engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, focusing on energy storage development and grid integration. He served as the Vice-Chair of the Photovoltaic and Solar Electric Technical Division at the American Solar Energy Society from 2020 to 2021 and currently curates their Solar@Work biweekly newsletter. His background as a mini-grid engineer installing solar PV systems supports his commitment to promoting solar integration nationwide.
Remi, a dedicated advocate for clean energy, specializes in finding innovative ways to help everyone embrace solar and reduce their carbon footprint. With a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder, he is a research engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, focusing on energy storage development and grid integration. He served as the Vice-Chair of the Photovoltaic and Solar Electric Technical Division at the American Solar Energy Society from 2020 to 2021 and currently curates their Solar@Work biweekly newsletter. His background as a mini-grid engineer installing solar PV systems supports his commitment to promoting solar integration nationwide.
Photovoltaic and Solar Electricity, Solar Panels and Energy Updated: Sep 6, 2024, 8:52pmWe earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Home. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
The cost of solar panels ranges anywhere from $8,500 to $30,500 , with the average 6kW solar system falling around $12,700. It’s important to note that these prices are before incentives and tax credits are applied. We found that solar panel prices vary based on where you live, the size of the system, the type of solar panels and more. With so many factors that go into the final price tag of your solar panels, knowing exactly where you might incur costs can help you budget for solar panels so that you can see the biggest energy savings.
We’ve broken down how much solar panels cost by analyzing a variety of cost databases and retailers to help you get started.
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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Key Takeaways
As you’re budgeting for a solar panel system, you may come across three types of solar panels. Each one can come with its own price tag, so consider the following price differences before you choose.
Monocrystalline solar panels cost between $1 and $1.50 per watt on average and are usually the most popular choice. As the name suggests, monocrystalline cells are made with one silicon crystal. These lab-grown crystals—called ingots—are cut into thin octagonal discs that are neatly attached to the panel for maximum efficiency. This higher efficiency comes at a cost, as most monocrystalline solar panels cost more to purchase and install than their counterparts.
The average cost for polycrystalline solar panels ranges from $0.90 to $1.50 per watt. Both polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar panels are photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. They convert sunlight into electricity. Unlike monocrystalline cells, however, the polycrystalline variety is comprised of fragmented silicon crystals cut into wafer-like shapes. This shortcut makes for a cheaper product that is faster to produce but also less efficient.
Thin-film solar panels cost between $0.50 and $1.50 per watt, putting them at the lowest end of the price range for solar panels. These solar panels also utilize photovoltaic materials, only most thin-film cells use amorphous silicon, which isn’t crystalline. Thin-film solar panels are cheaper to produce and use readily available materials, making them better for the environment.
The panels tend to have a lower efficiency and therefore require more space to generate the same amount of energy. They also only last between 10 to 20 years, which is 10 to 15 years less than PV panels. Still, if you’re on the go, we believe thin-film solar panels are a good fit for RVs because of their lightweight properties.
Depending on which state you live in, your average 6kW solar panel system will cost between $10,200 and $15,200 to install after accounting for the 30% solar tax credit. However, we know that every home has its own energy demands, and prices for solar panels can quickly increase or decrease based on the size of your system. Here’s a breakdown of solar system costs by size.
4,000 – 5,000 kWh $12,150 – $18,100 $8,500 – $12,700 8,000 – 10,000 kWh $14,600 – $21,700 $10,200 – $15,200 10,500 – 13,300 kWh $19,400 – $29,000 $13,600 – $20,300 13,300 – 16,700 kWh $24,300 – $36,200 $17,000 – $25,300 16,000 – 20,000 kWh $29,200 – $43,500 $20,400 – $30,500 * Depends on location and the amount of sun hours received See More See LessThe total cost of your solar panel installation can vary depending on the number of watts, amount of sunlight and local incentives. Let’s break down how each factor can impact the cost of going solar.
Solar panels cost between $2.40 and $3.60 per watt including installation. Therefore, just how much you pay for your system depends on how many watts you need to keep your home powered.
Your solar panel installation costs can vary based on how much sunlight your panels receive. The amount of sunlight depends on your location, climate, topography and shade coverage.
Local and state incentives can make a difference in the cost of your solar panel system. For example, some local governments offer incentive programs that can reduce the cost of your solar panels by $2,500 or more. Other incentives may include referral programs with your local solar panel installation company.
To find incentives near you, check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE). This resource allows you to discover policies and incentives by each state to lock you in on the best incentives possible.
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You’ll keep saving on electricity bills as long as the panels are generating power. Your home’s resale value is higher, and you can still claim tax credits if your PV system is installed between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2034.
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Once you’re done paying off your solar panels, you can enjoy the fruits of your financial labor (solar energy, that is) at no additional cost. You can expect a bill each month that breaks down how much energy your system generates vs. how much you actually use.
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Your solar panels will generate energy without cost to you after you finsh paying them off. You will, however, still receive regular utility statements that show how much you energy you use versus how much your panels create.
Multiple factors go into solar panel prices, including which solar company you choose, the number of panels, the federal tax credit, the type of panels and more. Let’s dive into what can impact your solar panel costs.
The cost of solar panels is dependent on the solar panel company you choose. From the solar equipment system itself to installation costs and add-ons, the price will vary from company to company, and the first step is to consider your options for the best solar companies.
How many solar panels you need to fully power your home usually falls around the 20 to 25 mark, but this number can range from 15 to 34 solar panels. Your home’s size, the efficiency of the panels and the amount of sunlight can play a role in determining just how many solar panels you’ll need. Since solar panels cost between $2.40 and $3.60 per watt, the more energy your solar panel system needs to produce, the more you’ll pay.
“Does the solar system size refer to the output capacity of the DC PV system or the inverter system AC rating? These are different in most cases and determined by the Inverter Load Ratio (ILR). A ratio of 1 means a 6KW DC PV system will be sized with a 6KW inverter, but the standard is usually around 1.15 to 1.2 for efficient use of the inverter.”
– Remi Akinwonmi
The federal solar tax credit is a rebate applied to your tax return as a tax reduction. For solar panels purchased between 2022 and 2032, you’ll receive a 30% tax credit. The credit will decrease to 26% in 2033, 22% in 2034 and expire in 2035. For example, on a $18,604 solar panel system, you’ll save approximately $5,500 on your solar panels, putting your final price around $13,100.
Again, the type of solar panels you choose plays a role in the material costs of your solar system, with prices varying from $0.90 to $1.50 per watt. Monocrystalline solar panels tend to have a high price range, while polycrystalline solar panels fall in the middle. Thin-film solar panels are also a cost-effective option. It’s important to remember that monocrystalline solar panels are more efficient than the other solar panel types and will give you the biggest ROI in terms of energy savings.
Not all solar panels are alike. Some solar panel manufacturers produce solar panels with higher efficiency ratings than others. For example, we found SunPower in-house solar panels are nearly 23% efficient compared to other solar panels that may have an efficiency rating closer to 19% or 20%.
High-efficiency solar panels require fewer panels to provide you with solar energy and may cost less overall—even if their upfront cost might fall closer to $3.60 per watt.
A more efficient solar panel will reflect more sunlight and transform that energy into electricity for your home. Therefore, choosing high-efficiency solar panels means you’ll get the most out of your solar panel system, but it can also mean you’ll pay more. Consider the pros and cons of going for high-efficiency solar panels to determine if investing is the right choice for your budget and energy needs. Some homeowners may find it more economical to go for less efficient polycrystalline solar panels to help offset the higher price tag of monocrystalline panels.
A roof with a higher pitch can be more challenging—and therefore more expensive—to install solar panels on. Solar panel companies may reflect the complexity of the installation in the quote.
The type of mounting system you choose for your solar panels can impact the cost anywhere from $15 to $750 per solar panel. Here’s a breakdown of the types of mounts:
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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On top of the typical costs of installing solar panels, you’ll also want to consider maintenance, cleaning, home insurance, monitoring, tree trimming, roof repair, solar panel repairs and solar roofs.
Maintaining your solar panels costs anywhere from $140 to $180 annually or an average of $150 per year if you hire a pro to maintain your solar panels. At this cost, your pro will inspect the panels for signs of repairs.
If you also want to hire a solar panel company to clean your solar panels, this will be an additional cost of around $150 per cleaning. For someone with the proper equipment, safety knowledge and experience, this could be a DIY-friendly job that only costs a one-time payment of around $100.
Once you invest in the initial amount for cleaning equipment, such as an extension ladder, garden hose spray attachments, squeegees, soft brushes and a one-gallon handheld sprayer, you’re essentially cleaning your panels for free—minus the labor and time commitment. It’s not recommended, however, to undertake this project without the proper skills. Safety is of the utmost importance even if you have to pay more.
Yearly cleanings can help improve the performance of your panels by ensuring debris and dust aren’t blocking sunlight from hitting the panels.
Solar panels can increase your home’s value, which in turn may increase the cost of your homeowner’s insurance. According to a 2018 to 2019 study by Zillow, homes with solar panel systems sold for $4.1% more than similar homes that didn’t have solar panel systems. However, this doesn’t necessarily translate over to your homeowners insurance. You’ll want to check with your insurance company to see if installing solar panels could increase your rates.
Depending on your solar panel company, some installers offer complimentary solar system monitoring that allows you to see your solar panel production in real-time and even view your electric usage to modify your lifestyle and make the most out of your solar panel system.
Elevation Solar is a good example of a solar company that integrates whole-home energy efficiency solutions. Other companies, like Palmetto Solar, may charge extra for monitoring services, so read the fine print of your solar panel installation company before you buy.
In some cases, you might want to invest in tree trimming services to help clear the way for sunlight to reach your installation site. The cost to trim a tree falls between $250 and $700 per tree.
Your roof needs a strong, sound foundation if you choose to install solar panels. Repair or replace old roofing beforehand to ensure that your home is safe from the elements and that no hazards will come from installing the panels. The average roof repair costs $950, but prices can range anywhere from $150 to $7,000 depending on the extent of the damage. Roof replacement costs even more, with prices ranging from $6,700 to $80,000, or $11,500 on average.
The cost to repair solar panels ranges from $200 to $1,700 depending on the severity of the damage. A small crack will cost the least to repair while repairing a solar panel inverter tends to fall at the higher end of the price range.
You may have an active solar panel warranty or comprehensive warranty through your solar panel installation company, so look at your warranty to see if you can save on the cost of repairing your panels. Most manufacturers offer a 25-year warranty.
The average cost for solar shingles ranges from $15,000 to $20,000. At $88,500 for a 6.31 kW solar roof. Tesla roofs and Powerwalls cost significantly more but also come with a battery storage system. Some homeowners opt to install solar shingles or solar roofs. These roofs replace your existing roof and protect your home from the elements while providing your home with an attractive, energy-efficient bonus.
“One might want to consider the inverter system size and how it will affect the cost of the system. In some cases, another inverter can be installed to prevent inverter clipping or curtailment from higher than 1 ILR.”
– Remi Akinwonmi
When planning to install a solar panel system, it’s essential to consider additional components that can enhance the system’s efficiency, reliability and aesthetic appeal. These add-ons can significantly impact the overall cost but also offer substantial benefits. Here’s a look at some common solar panel add-ons and their associated costs.
Solar shingles and tiles are an attractive alternative to traditional solar panels, designed to blend seamlessly with your existing roof. These photovoltaic (PV) materials replace or overlay your current shingles, converting sunlight into electricity. Solar shingles are typically more expensive than standard panels, with costs ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 for an average installation, but they offer a more streamlined look and can increase the value of your home.
Adding a solar battery to your system allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during power outages. This add-on can significantly improve your energy independence and reduce reliance on the grid. The cost of solar batteries varies widely based on type and capacity. On average, a residential lithium-ion battery system, including installation, ranges from $7,000 to $14,000 . While this represents a significant investment, the long-term savings and security benefits can make it worthwhile for many homeowners.
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Contrary to popular belief, winter can be one of the best times to install solar panels. There is less demand for solar services in the winter, so the installation could cost less as a whole. Yet, this may not always be the case in areas with icy or snowy weather, so keep in mind your climate as you factor in the best time to install solar panels on your home.
Installing solar panels during winter is also efficient. As solar installation companies typically do fewer jobs in the off-season, your panels are likely to be installed faster. Not to mention, the design, permit acquisition and installation process can take several weeks or months to complete. Even if winter isn’t the best time to install solar where you live, getting started during the cold weather season can help you have your panels up and running just in time for the summer.
Though solar panels cost money upfront, they can save homeowners money in the long term. Exactly how much solar panels will save you will depend on several factors, including the hours of daily direct sunlight available, the angle of your roof and the size of your solar panel system. The most important factor in determining how much money solar panels will save you is your local electricity rates.
To determine how much money your solar panels will save you each year, calculate how much you spend on electricity annually. For reference, as of 2022, the typical American family spends about $1,623 annually on electricity according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Then, determine your current utility rate, keeping in mind that utility rates tend to increase by 2.2% each year (yet another reason to install solar panels).
We created a guide to determining the return on investment of solar panels, and you can use an online calculator to estimate your annual savings by plugging in information like your location, energy usage and the current average price of solar panel installation in your area.
A common misconception is that solar panels will eradicate your electricity bills. While this isn’t always the case, solar panels do significantly reduce your monthly electricity bill and are worth the investment.
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Although it is a significant investment, homeowners can benefit from lower utility costs once solar panels are installed. When paid for outright, solar panels can cost homeowners anywhere from $20,548 to $30,666. If you’re wondering how to finance solar panels, we found several of the best ways to go about it.
Consider paying for solar panel installation outright in cash if you have the extra money in the bank. By owning your solar panels outright, you’ll be able to take advantage of the generous rebate and the tax incentive immediately.
Solar loans allow you to finance solar panels to help alleviate financial stress. Plus, after finding the best solar installer, you can start using the panels to power your home right away with little to no money down. The payment plan will involve monthly payments over a period of time with interest added, which does increase your costs by anywhere from 2.99% to 36% depending on your credit score, lender and loan duration.
In some states, homeowners can lease solar panels or finance them through what is known as a power purchase agreement (PPA). These leases or PPAs mean a third party will own and install the solar panel system on your roof while you pay that party for your energy each month. Some PPAs will lock you in for a set rate, but some have a payment schedule that rises each year.
Leasing solar panels allows you to harness the power of alternative energy at a low monthly rate. However, it’s important to note you do not own these panels, so you will not receive any tax advantages or rebates from them.
If you are refinancing your mortgage, consider a cash-out refinance. This allows you to extract cash from your home’s equity, which homeowners often earmark for needed home improvements or to pay down other debt.
Another alternative financing option is a home equity line of credit (HELOC). This allows you to tap into your home’s equity and use it as a lower-interest credit card so you can access cash for home projects.
Again, the average annual energy bill in 2022 was approximately $1,600. Since the average solar system costs between $10,200 and $15,200 after the tax credit, it could take you anywhere from 6.4 to 9.5 years to break even on the cost of your solar energy system. It may take you more or less time depending on your electricity costs and financing options, including applied incentives like local and federal tax credits.
To get an idea of how long it may take you to break even, subtract the value of any applied incentives or rebates from the total material and installation cost of your system. Compare your pre-solar utility bills with your post-solar utility bills once your system is operational. Divide the initial cost by your savings to determine the number of years until you break even. You can find more information on calculating your return on investment with solar panels in our guide.
To better understand the installation process, we recommend speaking to a solar energy consultant, especially since there are many things to consider and each home is unique. A consultant can let you know how long installation usually takes on homes similar to yours.
To begin the solar panel installation process, we suggest first ensuring your home is ready for a solar energy system. Additionally, your roof needs to be large enough, your electrical panel needs to be up to date and, most importantly, in good shape, so it won’t have to be replaced soon.
Once you’ve determined that your roof is compatible, it’s essential to plan out what you would like your system to provide. Whether you want energy to run lighting or a few appliances or create enough energy to sell some back to the power company or anything in between, this will determine the system’s size.
Before your installation, ensure you have the proper permits from your localities. The most time-consuming parts of the project are often waiting for the permits to be approved and scheduling the subsequent inspections.
You’ll want to consider incentive programs to make the most of your solar investment. These vary by locality and state. Even federal incentives can change from time to time. It would help if you also looked into tax credits, rebates or grants from multiple sources to offset costs. Apply for these incentives before starting physical work.
Since solar panel requirements vary depending on needs and locations, it’s best to order your project’s unique solar panel components all at once to ensure material compatibility and to have all your materials ready by the installation date.
Once everything is properly in place, it is time for the solar panel installation. Install the racking system, the panels, the heat sink, the charge controller, the battery bank, the power inverter and the energy meter. Next, double-check all wiring before connecting the energy system to the energy panel to complete the process.
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Solar panels can generate major savings if you’re trying to reduce your electricity costs, carbon emissions or both. The primary factor in determining whether or not solar panels are worthwhile for you is the cost you’re currently paying for electricity. The higher your electricity costs, the more a solar panel system will save you in the long run. This can vary significantly based on your location.
If you live in a region with middle- to upper-level utility rates, you can pretty much guarantee that a solar panel will save you big bucks over time. Solar panels tend to be worth the investment as long as you go about the installation process wisely.
In a recent Forbes Home solar survey, we found that homeowners who installed solar panels experienced many benefits to their property and overall quality of life. In particular, over 50% of surveyed individuals were impressed by the energy independence they gained from adding panels. Over 30% of homeowners noted an increase in their home value, and 42.2% of folks reported that they reap increased environmental benefits as well.
Technically, you can purchase a DIY solar panel installation kit for about $1 to $2 per watt and install the system yourself. However, the job is complex and dangerous and we do not recommend that nonprofessionals attempt to take it on.
Solar panel installation involves highly specific skills and technology, heavy equipment, climbing on roofs and the risk of electric shock. Most areas require you to pay for a permit and inspection, and some states require you to have a solar contractor license to install panels. Improper installation can void your system’s warranty. Instead, we recommend hiring a local solar panel installation company to correctly install your system for maximum safety and efficiency.
To arrive at the average costs in this article, we surveyed 27 local and national cost databases. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
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AdvertisementTHIS 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.
The most significant benefit of installing solar panels is that you will save energy and, in turn, electricity costs. If your solar panels are large enough, you can produce enough electricity for your home. But, even if your solar panels switch between the electricity from your solar panels to using energy from the National Grid, you’ll undoubtedly use less electricity and pay lower bills.
Solar panels help reduce your monthly electricity bills and can potentially increase the home’s value in the eyes of buyers more than comparable homes with no solar panels. Remember, homes with a solar energy system may have a 4.1% higher selling point than homes without solar energy.
Solar panels can take anywhere from one to five days to install, with most installations taking up to three days on average. The size of your system, weather conditions and the accessibility of your rooftop will all determine how long it takes for your installation crew to complete the project.
Net metering, or net energy metering, is a mechanism that allows you to transfer solar energy produced by your panels to the grid. Your utility or electric company will pay you for the energy by running your electric meter backward, decreasing your energy bills. Net metering is only possible with a grid-tied solar system.
The typical solar panel lifespan is 25 to 30 years, though some types of panels can last up to 40 years or more, while thin-film panels may only last between 10 and 20 years. Most manufacturers have limited warranties for 25 years, but you’ll want to check the specifications on your particular panels to be sure. These warranties are typically only valid when the panels are installed professionally.
You’ll pay between $14,600 and $21,700 to install a 6kW solar system. Remember, if you’re eligible, you’ll receive a 30% tax credit, which will put your final cost somewhere between $10,200 and $15,200, on average. Research solar energy incentives in your local area to see what credits or rebates you may qualify for.
The average 10kW solar system costs anywhere from $24,300 to $36,200. After the solar tax credit, you’ll likely pay between $17,000 and $25,300 for a panel of this size.
