Solar is clean. It’s predictable. It’s modern. But how much does solar actually cost?
A number of factors affect the cost of a solar power system. Let’s walk through how we calculate the cost, as well as how to save on solar.
Average cost of a solar power system
The average household needs an 11-kW solar system, which costs anywhere from $24,000 - $35,000. The price covers everything from permits to equipment to installation. But that doesn’t mean you have to spend that money upfront—there are payment options that allow you to go solar for as little as $0 out of pocket.
And remember, this is just an estimate of what a solar power system could cost. The key is getting one that’s designed just for you. If you go solar with Trinity, we’ll tailor a system to your needs and calculate how much it’ll cost to power your home with solar. A free consultation with one of our Solar Experts is all it takes to get started.
What affects the cost?
Several factors affect the cost of a solar power system. And it's mostly very specific to you and your home. So, what do we take into consideration when we calculate how much it'll cost to power your home with solar?
Energy needs & house size
No two homes are the same. The size and cost of a solar system needed to power a 1,500 square foot home with 2 people will differ from what a 2,500 square foot home with 6 people needs. The greater the energy demand, the larger the system, the higher the cost.
Roof space
The size of your roof affects how many solar panels it can accommodate. A larger roof gives you more space for panels, which means the potential for a bigger system, resulting in a higher cost. But even if you have a smaller roof, that may be all the space you need to cover your energy needs. We use specialized technology to evaluate your roof’s potential and design your system, ensuring it’s tailored to your household’s energy use.
System size
The size of your solar power system is one of the biggest cost factors. In general, the more panels you need, the more your system will cost. However, a larger system can also generate more energy and result in greater savings.
Location
Just as the cost of living varies from one place to the next, so does the cost of a solar power system. If you live in a pricier area, you may expect your system to cost more than the average system in a lower-cost-of-living area. Yet no matter where you live, solar can lower your overall energy costs and help you save some money.
Payment options
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to pay for solar. Purchasing a system upfront usually leads to the greatest long-term savings. But if you don’t want to pay everything upfront, you can go solar for as little as $0 out of pocket and still see savings. So, while your payment method does affect how much solar costs overall, every option offers a chance to benefit financially.
How to save money on solar
Solar is widely recognized as one of the most affordable energy sources. If that wasn’t enough, there are a couple ways to save even more on the cost of solar power.
State & federal incentives
Depending on what state you live in and which payment option you choose, you may be eligible for generous incentives. For example, the 30% federal tax credit. If you qualify, you could get back up to 30% of the system cost in the form of a tax credit.
It’s important to talk to a Solar Expert who can help you discover which incentives you may qualify for.
Net metering
While the name may vary by region, the concept of net metering is the same: If your solar system produces more power than you use, the extra will be sent to the utility grid in exchange for credit on your electric bill. This benefit can greatly impact your solar savings and energy costs.
Compare companies & costs
Going solar is a big decision, so it’s important to research accordingly. Meeting with different companies and comparing quotes will help you decide what will work best for you. As you shop around, keep in mind: you get what you pay for. Just because a company quotes you the lowest price doesn’t mean they can deliver an excellent experience and quality system.
Get your free quote from Trinity
Ready to calculate the cost of solar power for your home? Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with one of our Solar Experts. We’ll provide a detailed cost estimate, share a customized system design, walk you through your payment options, and answer your questions.
