The solar panel cost per watt typically lands between $2.50 and $3.30, and this is the most accurate way to compare different price quotes. Hi solar shoppers! Comparing solar prices can be tricky, like comparing a big bag of apples to a small bag of apples. The best way to know if you are getting a good deal is to use the “Price Per Watt.” It is the magic number that levels the playing field!
How to Calculate Your Cost Per Watt It is actually very simple math that any grownup can do! You take the total price of the system and divide it by the number of watts in the system.
- Example: If a system costs $25,000 and it produces 8,000 watts (8kW), your Cost Per Watt is $3.12.
- Why it matters: If one company quotes you $20,000 and another quotes you $22,000, the more expensive one might actually be a better deal if it gives you way more watts!
Bulk Buying Power Here is a fun secret: The bigger the system you buy, the lower the cost per watt usually goes! It is just like buying in bulk at the grocery store.
- Small Systems: A tiny 4kW system might cost more per watt because the truck still has to roll out to your house.
- Large Systems: A massive 12kW system usually has a cheaper cost per watt because the installers are already there and set up.
What is a “Good” Price? Generally, if you see a quote under $3.00 per watt, you are looking at a very competitive price! If it is over $4.00 per watt, you might want to ask why (maybe it includes batteries?). Using the cost per watt ensures you are paying a fair price for your sunshine power!