Solar energy cost estimates

How much does a solar panel cost?

Less efficient polycrystalline panels are typically cheaper at $0.75 per watt, putting the price of a 400-watt panel at $300. The cost of a solar panel also depends on how you buy it.

How much does a solar project cost?

For example, if you receive a solar quote for $25,000, you can expect labor to make up around $1,375 of the all-in cost. (Check out our solar calculator to estimate the cost of your project.)

How much does solar energy cost per watt?

The cost per watt is what you pay for each unit of power of your solar energy system. Think of it a little like “price per square foot” when you buy a house. It helps compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes. As of publishing, the average cost per watt is $2.84.

How much does solar installation cost?

According to the NREL data above, installation typically accounts for 5.5% of the total cost of a residential solar project, so this equation will get you a ballpark figure for labor costs. For example, if you receive a solar quote for $25,000, you can expect labor to make up around $1,375 of the all-in cost.

What is a solar cost calculator?

Our solar cost calculator is a great tool for getting a sense of how much solar costs and how much you can save by going solar. However, every calculator is limited by its assumptions and its results should be taken with a grain of salt.

Where can I find a free solar cost calculator?

Solar.com offers a free solar cost calculator that uses Google’s Project Sunroof and real-time utility rates to estimate how much you can save by going solar. Using the calculator is easy. Click the link above to open it in a new tab, and we’ll talk you through how to use it!