What determines home solar panel installation cost? If you are considering installing a home solar system, you may have done some solar panel price research and discovered that prices vary widely, even for a system of the same size within the same state.
So, apart from location and number of panels, what decides how much you will pay for going solar? Let’s break down five factors.
1. Roof Type and Angle
The optimal angle for solar panels is between 30 and 45 degrees. This angle allows the panels to capture and convert maximum solar energy. If you have a flat roof or are opting for a ground-mounted system, the contractor may need to build a structure to achieve better panel performance.
Additionally, your roofing material may determine the method your contractor uses to secure the panels to the roof structure. Some roof types require more labor and materials from solar contractors, thus bumping up installation costs.
2. Structural Issues
If you have an old or structurally compromised roof, you may need to replace it before installing solar panels. Otherwise, down the road, you may have to contact your installer and ask them to remove the panels and reinstall them after a roof replacement. This additional work means you pay more for solar installation.
3. Solar System Add-ons
Are you planning to invest in a battery bank as a backup energy store? Would you like to install a monitoring system that monitors your solar panel performance and your home consumption? These and other extras mean you pay beyond the basic panel installation and interconnection costs.
4. Local Costs: Interconnection, Licensing, and Tax Incentives
Solar panel price calculators can help you gauge how much you may expect to pay for a solar system in your state or county. However, some local factors may additionally impact your solar panel installation costs. These include:
- Interconnection costs, meaning the costs of connecting your system to the local power grid (unless you plan to go off-grid).
- Licensing costs, which depend on your local regulations.
- Local tax incentives that may offset solar system costs for qualifying homeowners.
5. Your Choice of a Solar Panel Contractor
When you consider installing a home solar system, it pays to get installation quotes from several local solar companies. The price differences may surprise you.
However, you shouldn’t automatically go with the lowest quote. Investing a little extra may make sense if you get a better-quality installation. Pay attention to what the project quote includes and the warranty length the contractor offers. Plus be sure to ask if the work is outsourced or done by employees of the company you are buying from.
ARE Solar: Top Solar Panel Installation Company in Denver, CO
Solar panel installation is a major investment that can offset your energy costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and improve your home’s value in sunny Colorado. To ensure your solar system performs optimally and stays in good repair for many years, choosing professional, reputable solar panel installation contractors is vital.
ARE Solar is a trusted solar company with over a decade of experience installing custom solar systems across Colorado. Call us at 720-637-2180 or contact us online for a solar panel installation estimate.
