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How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?

Have you considered switching to solar for your home but are worried about solar panel costs? Axia Solar aims to take the guesswork out of solar panels so you feel empowered to make the best choice for your home energy needs and can experience the benefits of energy independence.

So, let’s break down how much solar panels cost, what goes into determining the overall price, and how you may be able to save on a home solar system.

Solar Panel Costs

Solar panel costs to energize a home can range from $15,000 to $30,000 or even $40,000 in a few states, depending on where you live, the size of the system, and how many solar panels you require for your property. To determine if the cost of solar panels and installation will benefit you in the long run, do some research on your current energy use, gather quotes from solar companies in your area, and find out what government incentives may be available to you.

Solar panel costs can range from
$15,000 to $40,000.

Solar panel costs can range from
$15,000 to $40,000.

Review Your Electric Bill

How much energy are you currently using to power your home, and what is your average electric bill? These factors are important to consider since solar panels can significantly decrease your monthly bill and may even eliminate it altogether. Typically, the higher your electric bill, the more you could potentially save by switching to solar.

That savings may be enough to help offset solar panel costs, making them an economically viable option for your home.

Estimate and Compare Residential Solar Panel Costs

Just as you would shop around for the best deal on a large purchase like a car or TV, you should do the same for solar panels. Since the bulk of solar panel costs come from the installation and the panels themselves, those are the prices you’ll want to compare. You’ll also need to consider how many panels your home needs because you may have to pay more for more panels. Use the Axia Solar Calculator to get an estimate of the number of panels you’ll need.

Experts recommend getting between three and five quotes when shopping around for solar panel costs. Then, carefully review all parts of the estimate, including

  • If the company uses reputable solar panel brands
  • Reviews of the equipment and company
  • What solar financing options are available
  • Your potential savings
  • What tax incentives you may qualify for

All these factors can help you determine how much solar panels cost and if you’re getting a fair and accurate estimate.

Use our Solar Calculator to see what panels for your home would cost

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Take Advantage of Government Incentives

Federal tax credits are available for homeowners who install solar panels on their homes. Additionally, some states have their own incentives to help offset some of the solar panel costs. As you look at the price of a home solar system, consider these incentives to bring down your overall price.

If you’re unsure about the tax credits or rebates, you can speak with a tax professional to find out what you may qualify for.

Decide Whether Solar is the Right Choice for Your Home

After reviewing your electric bill, getting solar panel estimates, and considering government tax programs for solar, you’ll need to decide if a solar system is right for your home. If you determine that you’ll ultimately benefit from making the switch, contact the solar company you want to work with and get started.

Cost of Solar Panels by Type

There are three types of solar panels — monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film — each with its pros and cons. Every solar panel costs a particular amount, so you’ll want to consider these costs when choosing panels for you.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels are the most common and popular option because they are the most energy-efficient panels. However, these solar panels cost more than other options.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline solar panels are another common option, though they have a lower efficiency rating than monocrystalline panels.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar panels are a similar-cost alternative to crystalline panels. They are more efficient in low-light situations, have a lower profile, and can be easier to install.

Axia is proud to partner with Qcells, a reputable solar panel manufacturer based in the USA. Qcells is known for its high-quality solar panels that deliver exceptional performance and reliability. Their manufacturing processes adhere to rigorous standards, ensuring the production of efficient and durable solar products.

Our collaboration with Qcells underscores our commitment to providing customers with state-of-the-art solar solutions that support energy independence and contribute to a sustainable future. Our customers can have peace of mind knowing that they are investing in locally produced, top-tier technology.

Monocrystalline is the most energy-efficient and popular panel type.

Monocrystalline is the most energy-efficient and popular panel type.

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Factors That Affect Solar Panel Costs

So, how much do solar panels cost altogether? It depends! Many factors influence the final price of residential solar panels, so you’ll need to consider each point to determine your budget.

Solar Companies

The solar company you choose for your solar panel installation affects how much the panels cost. The cost of the equipment, installation, and add-ons varies by company, so take time to research providers near you and get a quote from a few of them. You should also seek out solar companies offering panels with the greatest efficiency.

Solar panel efficiency is determined by how they are made and how much sunlight they get. Due to their design, monocrystalline solar panels, like Qcells, are the most efficient option. When determining how much solar panels cost, you’ll need to consider panel efficiency in your budget. You should speak with a solar advisor to help you get the most effective panels at the best price.

Size, Weight, Roof Pitch, and Number of Panels

Your energy use and the size of your home determine how many solar panels you need. So, how much do solar panels cost per square foot? Typically, the more panels you need, the more they will cost. Additionally, the size and weight of the panels also affect solar panel costs. The pitch of your home’s roof also plays a role in solar panel costs. If your roof is too steep or has complicated angles, installation becomes challenging, and a solar company may charge more for this.

Knowing how much energy your household uses, how many panels you need, and how much space you have for solar panels, you’ll have a better idea of what you might pay.

Federal Solar Tax Credit

The federal solar tax credit, known as the Clean Energy Credit, is an incentive program that encourages people to switch to solar. Through 2035, homeowners can deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their taxes, which helps bring down the overall cost of solar panels. Remember that solar panel costs vary by state, so they may be more or less expensive depending on where you live. Additionally, some states, like California, have their own tax incentives that can influence the price.

You can learn more about the federal solar tax credit here or speak with a tax professional for more insight.

Average Cost of Solar Panels by State

The price of solar panels varies from state to state for a number of reasons. Typically, states that get more sunshine or have more mild weather want people to switch to solar. Other states that get more rain or snow may have fewer incentives and could have lower solar panel costs. You’ll need to get a quote from your state to determine what your solar panel costs might be.

If you are looking for average costs around the country, you can find a complete list of solar power costs by state here. Additionally, solar tax incentives and rebates can vary by state so it’s good to research what may be available to you.

Solar costs vary from state to state.

Solar costs vary from state to state.

The Bottom Line

A home solar system can be a beneficial investment, but you’ll have to design if switching to solar is right for you. Before you make your final decision, here are a few more things to consider.

How Long Before Solar Panels Pay for Themselves?

It can take between six and 15 years for solar panels to pay for themselves. However, since many factors — like those listed above — can affect the cost of solar panels, no one answer applies to every situation.

Does Solar Increase Home Value?

Installing a solar panel system is considered a home upgrade, just like a kitchen renovation or a bathroom upgrade. This means that in some states, a home’s value could increase by around 4% just by adding solar panels.

Ready to Go Solar?

If you’re ready to switch to renewable solar energy, Axia is here to make it possible. We guide you through the entire transition, ensuring you feel informed and empowered through every step of our simple and seamless process.

Get in touch with one of our solar advisors today to discuss solar panel costs, get a custom quote, or begin your solar power installation. We can’t wait to help electrify your life!

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Want to learn more about how solar works? Check out these related articles. Have a question you can't find an answer to? Contact us or chat live with an expert today.

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