Home Solar System

How Much Do Home Solar Panels Cost?

Have you ever asked why there's so much difference in the cost of home solar panels? The main reason is that solar panels can contain different numbers of solar cells.

 

However, ‘cost' as it relates to solar panels is really two questions.

 

When people ask the question, "How much do home panels cost", they may actually be asking "How much does a solar panel cost"?

 

Or they might be asking "How much will it cost me for enough panels to power my home"?

 

The answer to the first question is pretty easy. The good news is that pre-built retail solar panel prices are coming down. Average wholesale prices today per single 80w – 100w solar panel range between $250 – $350 per panel.

 

However, you can do lots better.

 

Most people aren't aware that it's actually quite easy to build your own solar panels. You can build your own panels for less than half of what you'll pay wholesale – under $100 each!

Today's solar guides are becoming more popular and are extremely helpful if you want to build your own solar panels and install them yourself.

 

The answer to the second question is based on multiple factors.

• Your home size


• What direction your home faces


• How much electricity you use


• Where in the world you live


• What rebates and tax incentives are available

 

And, here's some more good news! The cost of home solar power turnkey installations has decreased from over $7 per watt in 2009 to $5 or less per watt today.

 

Current turnkey pricing from a solar contractor – including all components and installation – seems to range from less than $12,000 for a very energy efficient home to as much as $50,000 for a large home.

 

About half of that investment may be recouped through tax incentives and rebates depending on where you live. And of course, you can reduce those costs significantly if you're able and willing to do some or all of the work yourself.

 

You'll certainly want to determine if you can justify home solar energy costs . . . even if you're planning to use a DIY solar panel guide and build them yourself.

 

Obviously, if you're in an area with very little direct sunshine, you're going to need a lot more panels to capture enough energy even on your sunny days.

 

Although the single biggest drawback to solar power is still the initial solar panel cost, rebates and tax breaks are a tremendous help. You can reduce your actual out-of-pocket costs by half or more with tax credits, rebates and incentives.

 

However, the bottom line is still about payback. With all the tax savings and rebates, it's not uncommon to see the savings in energy pay back the cost of the entire solar power system in 5 years or less.

 

Check it out for yourself – and start saving today!

About the Author

Bud Greenlee is a long time solar power advocate and maintains the website, Easy Solar Panel Plans. Read his candid review of DIY solar panel guides.

 

You're invited to learn the 'Inside Scoop' on building and installing home solar panels. Simply sign up for the 100% Free "Solar Power 101" Mini-Course.

Solar System Phoenix Arizona