Solar Panel Cost Guide in Merritt Island, FL (2024 Update)
- Merritt Island Solar Installation Cost: $11,321
- 25-Year Savings: $20,236
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Merritt Island
We break down average solar pricing in Merritt Island.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Merritt Island typically cost about 3.The average Merritt Island homeowner needs a 5.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,321 with the federal tax credit, or $16,189 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Merritt Island, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Merritt Island
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,948 |
| 3 years | $-7,200 |
| 5 years | $-4,453 |
| 7 years | $-1,706 |
| 9 years | $1,041 |
| 11 years | $3,789 |
| 13 years | $6,536 |
| 15 years | $9,283 |
| 17 years | $12,030 |
| 19 years | $14,778 |
| 21 years | $17,525 |
| 23 years | $20,272 |
| 25 years | $23,019 |
Top Solar Installers in Merritt Island
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Merritt Island, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Merritt Island
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Merritt Island
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Merritt Island: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Merritt Island average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Merritt Island, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.34 | $14,021 | $20,702 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.27 | $18,336 | $27,963 | 9.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.21 | $22,470 | $35,403 | 9.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.15 | $26,425 | $43,023 | 9.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.08 | $30,200 | $50,822 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.02 | $33,795 | $58,802 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.95 | $37,210 | $66,961 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.89 | $40,446 | $75,300 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Merritt Island, FL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Merritt Island?
The average cost of solar panels in Merritt Island is about $16,050 for a 5-kW system and $32,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Merritt Island?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Merritt Island, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.