Solar panels are no wonder a great invention. They are safe, secure and offer a great power efficiency to the users. Moreover, along with the efficiency, solar panels are 100% environmentally safe. The average cost of installing solar panels in Virginia is about 1800$ for a small family apartment or house. However, there are various other things that influence this cost. Here’s a brief guide on the Solar Panel Cost in Virginia
How Solar Panels Helps Save the Cost?
Solar panels are based on renewable energy production. They consume solar light and convert it into electrical energy through the conversion process. The solar energy is then converted into electrical energy through an electrical process known as P/N junction.
The photon of the light when they hit the solar plate, the photon from the sunlight moves N number of electrons to N junction. From the N junction, the electron is accelerated and hence electric current is produced.
Why Are Solar Panels So Efficient?
Since, there’s no mechanical work being done, no external energy except sunlight is being used, the panels can last for eternity without any issues or efficiency loss, but only in the ideal system. Their energy production is based on the atomic level, that’s what makes them highly efficient, so that every atom in the plate is utilised.
However, it doesn’t mean that solar panels last forever. The external forces acting on the plate do make it run out. These forces include air, oxidation, impact of external objects, acidic droppings of pigeons and birds and many other forces that run out the solar panels that are inevitable. However, still solar panels are highly efficient and cost effective. If you are interested in learning how to get rid of pigeons under solar panels, you can read more about it here.
The Cost of Solar Panels in Virginia
The cost of solar panels in Virginia is dynamic. It all depends on the system you choose and your living area. However, if we compare it with the average cost of New York, Las Vegas or Washington, Virginia is fairly cheaper.
Type of Solar Panel | Cost per Watt | Cost per Panel (250W) | Cost for Typical Home (6kW) |
Monocrystalline | $0.50-$0.80 | $125-$200 | $3,000-$4,800 |
Polycrystalline | $0.45-$0.70 | $113-$175 | $2,700-$4,200 |
Thin Film | $0.40-$0.60 | $100-$150 | $2,400-$3,600 |
Here are some factors that influence the solar panels installation cost in virginia:
Location of the Solar Panels
The location of the panels has a great influence on the installation cost. The higher the elevation, the more electricity you get and so, your overall electricity bill will be higher. Moreover, other factors that affect the installation cost such as slope, distance from the grid and other local factors like how you clean.
You should also make sure that the installer has experience installing rooftop systems since these systems require more care than ground-mounted ones. It is therefore advisable to consult an expert like Solar Master Pro before setting up your solar panels at any particular location.
The size of your property
The size of your property can influence the cost of panels installation. If you have a large roof and high sun exposure, it may be cheaper to install solar panels on other parts of the roof. It’ll give you maximum efficiency, hence low cost in the long run.
Solar panels installed on the south side of your house will produce more juice than if they were installed on the north facing side. It’s because, sin has highest juice in the south side
The quality of your installation
The quality of your installation can also influence the cost of solar panel installation. A better quality installation will let you save money by reducing wastage and increasing efficiency %.
This means that you will produce more current from every watt installed in your system. For example, a higher quality installation will reduce wear and tear on wiring and ensure that all connections are secure.
This prevents any issues with electrical failure or short circuits which can cause damage to equipment and appliances.
The type and size of solar panels you choose
Solar panels come in different sizes and types depending on how much power they are capable of producing. The type and size of solar panel chosen depends on how much space is available for its installation on your roof. The average power that a solar plate can produce is about 45W-80W. The higher the Wattage plate you choose, the more power they’ll produce in a unit of time. You can do the calculation and find the ideal wattage of your choice.
The higher the wattage, the more expensive the solar panels will become. Therefore, cost is proportional to the pricing. However, the higher wattage means you’ll need a low number of plates to achieve the targeted electricity production. Therefore, do the corresponding calculation as per your needs.
Appliances
Of course, the power requirements are dependent on the appliances you use. The more appliances you use, the more power you’ll need to run them, and hence higher the cost. Solar panels, being a low powered electricity generator, can’t power high powered appliances like AC, toaster and oven. They can do, but will require a lot of power.
Therefore, using them to power low powered appliances like LED, fan and chargers is always a good and wise option. You can use them to power your lighting, fans, chargers and other low powered appliances. You can use grid electricity to power high electricity appliances.
How much do solar panels cost in Virginia?
In Virginia, the typical price for a 9 kW solar panel system is approximately $35,000 – $40,000 reflecting the average cost in the region.
Are there any incentives or rebates available to reduce the cost of solar panels in Virginia?
Yes, there are several incentives and rebates available in Virginia that can help reduce the cost of installing solar panels. These include the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), the Virginia Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit, and the Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) program.
Can I finance the cost of solar panels in Virginia?
There are various financing options available to help you cover the cost of solar panels in Virginia. These options include solar loans, solar leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Each option has its own terms, benefits, and considerations, so it’s advisable to research and compare them to find the best fit for your situation.
How long does it take to recoup the cost of solar panels in Virginia?
The payback period for solar panels in Virginia depends on multiple factors, including the upfront cost, energy consumption, electricity rates, available incentives, and financing terms. On average, homeowners in Virginia can expect to recoup their investment in solar panels within 7 to 12 years.
Will installing solar panels increase the value of my home in Virginia?
Solar panels can potentially increase the value of your home in Virginia. According to studies, homes with solar panels tend to sell at a premium compared to similar homes without solar installations. Additionally, solar panels can enhance the marketability and appeal of your property to potential buyers.
Are there any maintenance costs associated with solar panels in Virginia?
Solar panels generally have minimal maintenance costs. Regular cleaning of the panels to remove dirt and debris is recommended, but it can usually be done with a hose or soft brush. Additionally, most solar panels come with warranties that cover any equipment failures or performance issues.
Can I install solar panels myself to save on costs in Virginia?
While it’s technically possible to install solar panels yourself, it’s generally not recommended unless you have experience and expertise in electrical work. Solar panel installation involves complex wiring and safety considerations. It’s advisable to hire a professional solar installer in Virginia to ensure the system is installed correctly and safely.
Where can I find reputable solar panel installers in Virginia?
For reputable solar panel installers in Virginia, look no further than Solar Master Pro! We take pride in providing top-notch solar solutions that meet your unique needs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering high-quality installations and excellent customer service.