How much do solar panels cost in Louisiana?
Residential solar installations typically cost between $10,000 and $30,000 or more. The size of your system is a big factor in how much you pay. The average size of a solar system in Louisiana is 12.5 kW.
Average cost per system size in Louisiana
| 10 kW | 11 kW | 12 kW | 13 kW | 14 kW | 15 kW | 16 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before the federal tax credit | 25,700 USD | 28 270 USD | 30,840 USD | 3 3 410 USD | 35 980 USD | 38 550 USD | 41 120 USD |
| After the federal tax credit | 17990 USD | 19 789 USD | 21 588 USD | 2 3 387 USD | 25 186 USD | 26985 USD | 28 784 USD |
| Approximate house size | 1500 Sq | 1700 Sq | 1900 Sq | 2100 Sq | 2300 Sq | 2500 Sq | 2700 Sq |
Source: Ecowatch
Should you use Louisiana solar panels?
It depends. For many Louisianans, solar panels are affordable. After purchasing solar panels in 2015, John Kehouma, a resident, told us his energy costs "dropped dramatically." This happened about 10 years ago when light intensity was low. With solar panels, your monthly energy costs are lower and won't increase as utility prices rise.
If you live in a very isolated or shady area, or if your energy consumption is very low, the initial cost may not offset your savings over time. Louisiana's electricity rates are below average, but the state's energy consumption is above average. Higher energy costs mean you need larger solar installations, which increases overall costs.
It makes financial sense that the monthly payment for the panels is lower than your current energy bill and that the panels meet most or all of your energy needs. It's a good idea to evaluate your situation and compare multiple quotes from reputable solar installers to see if solar panels are worth it.
"Still Not Convinced? Pros and Cons of Solar Energy."
Reasons for the cost of going solar in Louisiana
How much you actually pay for solar panels depends on many factors, including the size of your system, the quality of your panels, and the condition of your roof.
Your energy consumption
Not surprisingly, the smaller your system, the less you'll pay. You can easily decide which size system you want. First, check your electricity bill online to see how much electricity you used in kilowatt hours (kWh) last year. Divide this number by 1200.
In Louisiana, the typical household uses 14,304 kWh per year. Using this formula, a typical house will generate about 12 kW.
"What's the difference? kW vs. kWh
Cost of solar equipment
The performance of the solar panels in your system, the size and weight of your panels, and the equipment you buy with your panels can all play a role in your total payment.
Here are some average costs you can expect on panels and other equipment
"Comparing. The most efficient solar panels
The condition of your roof
Knowing that solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, your roof should also be durable. If your roof fails, you will pay additional fees to remove the panels, repair or replace the roof, and reinstall the panels. To avoid these extra costs and potential headaches, make sure your roof is in good shape before heading out into the sun.
"Your roof needs to be replaced before going out in the sun .
How do you pay?
If you can't pay cash, there are several options for paying for your solar system. You can get a solar loan to finance solar panels. Other options include leasing solar equipment or a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). With a PPA, you lease the equipment and pay for the power it produces. A rental agreement is similar to a solar panel agreement.
Local permits and fees
If you don't live outside of the city, you may need to get a permit for your solar system and pay local taxes. This additional cost can be hundreds of dollars.
Louisiana Solar Incentives, Tax Credits and Rebates
The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a major factor in reducing solar energy costs in Louisiana. By the end of 2032, if you install a home solar panel system, you will receive a federal income tax credit equal to 30% of the total cost of the system, including equipment, labor and permits. Debt will decrease by 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
In Louisiana, the average value of federal solar investment tax credits in 2023 is $9,638.
The state of Louisiana has a 100% ad valorem property tax exemption, so you won't have to pay additional property taxes for adding solar panels and other green energy equipment to your home's value. There is a partially subsidized loan program designed to make solar more affordable.
vision Louisiana Solar Energy Promotion
Compare solar panel installation companies in Louisiana
Compare the most popular solar companies in Louisiana below. Read our guide to finding the best solar companies to learn more.
Questions will be asked
How will Louisiana solar costs change?
According to the Solar Energy Association, the cost of solar energy in Louisiana has dropped 43 percent over the past 10 years.
Can I get free solar panels in Louisiana?
You can hire or enter into a PPA with no upfront cost. However, none of them are completely free. Renting solar panels usually requires a fixed monthly fee. PPAs charge you per unit of electricity.
» Free Solar Sales. Are they really independent?
How much can I save with solar panels?
It's a common misconception that solar panels always eliminate monthly energy bills completely, but that's not always the case. The good news is that after going solar, people are paying much lower bills than before.
" Take it. Where is the most effective solar energy storage?
How does a net counter work in Louisiana?
If your solar system produces more energy than you use, you can sell the excess to your electricity supplier through a process called net metering. This system gives you credit for the energy bill you invest. To qualify for net metering in Louisiana, your solar system must not exceed 25 kilowatts (kW).
"Comparing. The Best Solar Control Systems
Are solar panels cheaper to install yourself?
Building your own solar system can be expensive, but if you don't know what you're doing, it can be difficult and dangerous, especially for a large residential project.
» DIY Solar Panels. Advantages and Disadvantages
Can I install solar panels on a historic building?
Historic buildings or monuments may have restrictions on using solar energy. The New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission does not prohibit the installation of solar panels on most historic buildings, although some areas may require City Council approval.
Snow damaged my solar panels.
Yes, snow can damage solar panels, but that shouldn't stop you from installing them. Many brands of solar panels are designed to withstand light snow, which is common in Louisiana. Any damage repair costs may be covered by home insurance.
summary
Solar power in Louisiana is more expensive than other states, but don't let that stop you. Exemption from GST and property tax makes the panels much cheaper. Also, over 25 years, you can accumulate about $13,646 in savings. Net metering helps offset some costs.
» Guidance. Installation of solar panels
Solar energy consumption. Louisiana compared to neighboring states
| Initial Price* | ITC Rate (30%) | Average cost per watt | Normal system size | Recovery Time** | Estimated net savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 32 126 USD | 9 638 USD | 2.57 dollars | 12.5 kW | 14 years | 1 3646 USD |
| Mississippi | 30,360 USD | 9 108 USD | 2.64 USD | 11.5 kW | 13 years | 20147 USD |
| Arkansas | 2 7940 USD | 8 382 USD | 2.54 USD | 11 kW | 13 years | 1 5 567 USD |
| Kansas | 23 310 USD | 6993 USD | $2.59 | 9 kW | 11 years | 21 455 USD |
| Texas | 30,934 USD | 9 280 USD | 2.69 USD | 8.5 kW | 13 years | 21 350 USD |
| Oklahoma | 28,820 USD | 8 646 USD | 2.62 USD | 11 kW | 14 years | 1 4 190 USD |
| Alabama | 28 176 USD | 8 453 USD | 2.45 USD | 11.5 kW | 11 years | 28,590 USD |
* Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (CCI); ** If full payment is made in advance.
Text Source:
Consumer affairs editors rely heavily on original research from government data, industry experts and other reputable publications to do their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- EcoWatch, "Costs of Solar Panels in Louisiana." From November 5, 2023
- EcoWatch, "Is Solar Energy Worth It in Louisiana?" From November 5, 2023
- Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, "Homeowner's Guide to Federal Solar PV Tax Credits". From November 5, 2023
- Solar Energy Industry Association, Louisiana Solar. From November 5, 2023
- DSIRE, Louisiana Program. From November 5, 2023
- Energize, "Louisiana Solar Panels." From November 5, 2023
- New Orleans Preservation Information Center, "Solar Power for Historic Buildings." From November 5, 2023
