Is $20,000 to install a 7.40 kW solar panel system a fair price?
Project Details
I have been searching for years for solar panels because the grid was closed in my area. I'm paying cash for this system and am curious if I got a good deal before signing the final paperwork. I would have preferred a larger system, but my roof in the front can only handle 15 panels, and the back might be limited to 7 or 8 total. I might increase the system size later as this was a lot of money all at once. Net metering is still 1:1, but my roof wouldn't accommodate much more, so I was shooting for around 80% offset. It's unfortunate that the 30% ITC wasn't available because the grid was closed until late October. I live in a neighborhood with many trees; we had to remove 6 trees to make the rooftop viable for solar, and now only two non-obstructive trees are left on my property. My neighbors also have many trees. I might build a pergola over my smoker/grill setup and consider adding solar panels there later, as it gets good sun mid to late afternoon most of the year. My roof faces south/southwest and north/northeast, and the sun arcs well over my property, providing a decent amount of sun, especially mid-day. I've seen annual production estimates ranging from 8000 to 9500 kWh/year. I'm planning to get a few more panels down the line and explore options like a ground array on my 120x110' lot or other mounting methods for extras. I'm also considering upgrading my pool pump to at least a dual speed to save power.
Quote Details
Installation of a 7.40 kW solar panel system, including panels, installation, and warranty. - System Size: 7.40 kW - Number of Panels: 18 - Average Offset: 79% - Annual Savings: $2,684.16 - Inverter Manufacturer: Enphase Energy - Inverter Model: IQ8HC-72-M-US [240V] - Panel Manufacturer: Maxeon Solar Technologies - Panel Model: SPR-MAX3-410-BLK
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More Details
Category
Solar
Price
$20,000
Quote Date
February 2, 2026
Battery Storage?
No
# of Panels
18
System Size (kW)
7.40
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