When consideringsolar panels price or your home, it’s important to consider how much the system will cost upfront and also over time. A well-designed system can help you save money on your utility bills, especially if it is located in a state with high energy rates and plenty of sunlight. But, the key factors that will determine your total solar panel price are your location, energy needs and equipment selection.

Upgrading Your Power: Exploring the Different Types of Electric Panels and Their Benefits

Generally, the bigger the solar energy system, the more expensive it will be. This is because a larger system will require more panels and will produce more electricity than a smaller one. However, there is a Costco-esque relationship between system size and average price per watt: a higher wattage system typically costs more overall, but the per watt cost decreases as the systems get bigger.

Solar panel prices also vary by brand, but this is usually based on the reputation of a manufacturer rather than the actual quality of a given product. Depending on your goals, it might make sense to pay more for a high-quality system that degrades in efficiency slower over time.

Other hardware costs include the inverter, racking equipment and installation labor. These will differ by installer and are included in your initial solar estimate. There are also soft costs, which are the fees associated with permits, interconnection and other facets of getting your system installed and operational. These will not appear on your itemized invoice, but they do have a significant impact on your solar energy project’s bottom line.