A solar panel system is more than a few panels on your roof. It’s a technological ecosystem that works together to bring clean energy into your home or your business. There’s a lot to research first before committing to solar panels.
- What type of panels?
- What are the most cost effective and efficient panels?
- What warranties does your installer have and what do they entail?
- The placement of your panels and where they are facing – Roof, ground; north facing, south facing
The Cost of Solar Panels and Installation
One of the greatest benefits of solar panels is that they can save you hundreds of dollars each year. If you’re a business owner, it can save you thousands of dollars every year. With that said, it is important to consider the upfront costs of installing solar panels. The initial cost can scare many away, but we have several financing options available for you.
Most solar panel manufacturers offer financing on their solar panels. On average the cost of solar panels is about $6,000. There are several different types of solar panels so costs may vary depending on the type you decide to purchase.
Solar panel installation costs vary depending on location, but in the residential areas of Idaho, the costs normally range between $15,000 and $25,000. For commercial solar panel installation, the costs will be much higher and will require a more in-depth understanding of your property.
We offer a variety of financing options. Most usually go with a Solar Loan. The initial cost of solar can be steep, but with zero money down and our solar loans provided, your monthly payments will be drastically reduced compared to your usual electric bill.
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Types of Solar Panels to Choose From
The solar panels have a direct impact on your energy generation. The higher the quality, the better the generation. High quality panels reduce long-term expenses and it uses less space on the roof.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels are the most energy efficient option. They cost between $1 to $1.50 per watt so the average 6kW solar panel system can cost between $6,000 to $9,000. They produce more kilo-watt hours per square foot and are the perfect choice for residential homes or properties with limited space.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are the more affordable option but you require more solar panels to produce the same amount of energy as monocrystalline. Polycrystalline panels are less efficient and have a lesser lifespan than monocrystalline as well. Overall, polycrystalline is known for its affordability, but lesser quality.
Thin-Film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels are more inexpensive than their counterparts, but require a large amount of space, and hence, are primarily used in industrial settings. Rather than crystalline solar cells like mono- and polycrystalline, thin-film solar panels layered in a photovoltaic material. They are also less efficient than polycrystalline, but are larger in size. These are perfect for commercial properties.
Warranty
The lifespan of solar panels is approximately 25-30 years, sometimes even longer than that. When you’re buying solar panels, it’s important to maintain their quality. The best way to manage that is through the warranties. A majority of solar panel manufacturers offer a 10-15 year guarantee. Ask your solar installer what other guarantees and warranties are available for your solar panels.
Warranties To Look For
Workmanship guarantee
Services and repairs are free of charge if defects are found through no fault of any party.
Performance guarantee
System generates the amount of power it was designed to produce. If the system fails to meet expectations, the installer or manufacturer will fix the problem.
Roof penetration guarantee
Many installers have a roof penetration guarantee. If your roof is repaired or replaced by them, they may offer roof penetration that guarantees no leaks for a certain amount of years.
Technology guarantee with price lock
Some offer a technology guarantee that guarantees replacement parts of equal or lesser value of the failed solar equipment part.
Moment Solar offers a free consultation to answer any questions you may have about solar in Idaho. Whether you’re starting your own business, bought a new home (or looking to upgrade it), we’ll be happy to help you start your solar journey.
