Solar Panel Cost Guide in Topeka, KS (2024 Update)
- Topeka Solar Installation Cost: $18,293
- 25-Year Savings: $28,820
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Topeka
We go over average solar pricing in Topeka.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Topeka generally cost around 3.The average Topeka homeowner needs a 7.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,293 with the federal tax credit, or $26,159 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Topeka
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,942 |
| 3 years | $-14,241 |
| 5 years | $-11,540 |
| 7 years | $-8,838 |
| 9 years | $-6,137 |
| 11 years | $-3,436 |
| 13 years | $-735 |
| 15 years | $1,967 |
| 17 years | $4,668 |
| 19 years | $7,369 |
| 21 years | $10,070 |
| 23 years | $12,772 |
| 25 years | $15,473 |
Top Solar Installers in Topeka
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installation company since handling can be a challenging project. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy consumption, but going with a solar installer can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Topeka:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Topeka
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Topeka
There are many factors that can play into your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,340.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Topeka average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Topeka homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Topeka is the company you hire to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Topeka are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.47 | $14,589 | $18,390 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.41 | $19,078 | $24,893 | 10.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.34 | $23,380 | $31,584 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.27 | $27,495 | $38,462 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.21 | $31,423 | $45,527 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.14 | $35,164 | $52,779 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.07 | $38,717 | $60,219 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.01 | $42,084 | $67,845 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Topeka, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can verify your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the durability of your solar panel system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Topeka, KS Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Topeka?
The average cost of solar panels in Topeka is about $16,700 for a 5-kW system and $33,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Topeka have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.