Average Solar Panel Prices in 2025: What Homeowners Need to Know

How I Achieved a $0 Electric Bill with Solar Panels

My electric bill has been $0 for the last two years. In this article I’m going to show you how I got there with every number you could ever want to see: cost savings, hidden fees, and surprising savings I didn’t even know existed. I’ll make all the numbers extremely easy to understand. This is the guide I wish I had before I got solar.

Solar Panel System Size and Installation Costs

I went with a 12.24 kW system. If you’re like I was when I first learned about solar, that number probably means nothing to you. Let me explain. Each solar panel installed on our house is 340 watts, and there are 36 panels on the roof, totaling 12,240 watts or 12.24 kW. To use or store that solar energy, I have two inverters and three power walls capable of 40.5 kWh of energy storage, with 15 kW of continuous power and 21 kW of surge power.

The total upfront cost before any tax credits or rebates was $48,000. At first glance, that might seem expensive, but I’ll break down all the numbers so you can see the total savings.

Solar Energy Generation and Usage

Our solar panels were installed in 2021, and I now have two full years of data. In 2022, the system generated 23.6 megawatt-hours, and in 2023, 24.5 megawatt-hours. Tesla had estimated 22.45 megawatt-hours per year, so my system exceeded expectations. I live in Arizona with south-facing panels, which get sunshine all year long.

Daily solar generation averages about 60 kWh in winter and 85 kWh in summer. My home’s energy usage in 2022 was 18.67 MWh and in 2023, 18.7 MWh. I run air conditioning heavily in the summer, but I still generate more energy than I use annually.

Power Walls and Backup Energy

Daily usage varies based on appliances. With no AC, microwave, or dryer running, my home uses about 7 kW. If one AC unit is on, it jumps to 5 kW; both AC units together can reach 10–11 kW. Energy used at a specific time is critical for battery backup. My three power walls handle high continuous power and provide enough backup energy for nighttime use, which is about 20–30 kWh in the summer.

Avoiding Peak Pricing and Demand Charges

I live on a solar energy plan with average demand. Peak energy from the grid is expensive, so my system automatically switches to solar or battery backup during peak hours. This avoids extra demand charges and ensures I maximize savings.

Additionally, there is a $324 monthly connection fee from my energy company, SRP. Net metering allows me to sell back excess solar energy, often covering this fee entirely. Over two years, I paid SRP a total of $314.78, averaging $13 per month, which I consider effectively $0 for electricity.

Return on Investment and Cost Savings

The initial cost of $48,000 was offset by federal and state tax credits and a $3,600 rebate for power walls, bringing my total down to $39,995. My electricity cost before solar was about $200 per month, or $2,273 per year. This leads to a break-even point of approximately 13.6 years, which will decrease over time as electricity rates rise.

Additional savings come from using solar to charge my EV. A Tesla Model Y trip that would cost $10 in gas only costs $1 using solar. Factoring in all savings, the break-even point could drop closer to 10 years. Non-monetary benefits, such as comfort, peace of mind, and home resale value, make it worth it.

Peace of Mind and System Longevity

I do not regret choosing a larger system. Solar panels slowly lose efficiency over time, about 0.5% per year, so the extra capacity ensures coverage for decades. During a neighborhood power outage, my lights barely flickered, and everything switched over seamlessly. The combination of solar panels and power walls ensures uninterrupted power, energy savings, and full control over my electricity usage.

Solar Panel Cost Per Watt: How to Calculate Your Investment

How to Calculate the Exact Solar Panel Rating for Your Home

If you are going to install a solar panel system, whether off-grid or on-grid, you can easily determine the exact wattage and solar panel rating using a few simple steps.

Step 1: Determine Total Power Usage

Suppose we want to power four lights, each rated at 15 watts, and one fan rated at 60 watts. If these appliances run for four hours every day, we first calculate the total watts required:

Total Load in Watts

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This 120 watts is the daily load per hour we need the solar panels to power.

Step 2: Calculate Daily Energy Requirement

We need a continuous power supply for four hours per day. Multiply the total load by the hours of use:

Daily Energy Requirement

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This means we will use 480 watt-hours daily over four hours.

Step 3: Determine Solar Panel Rating

Assuming complete sunshine for six hours each day, divide the daily energy requirement by the number of sunlight hours to get the hourly power output needed from the solar panel:

Solar Panel Rating

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This calculation indicates that an 80-watt solar panel will produce 480 watt-hours of energy during six hours of sunlight.

Key Considerations

The above calculations are based on ideal conditions. It is recommended to choose a solar panel with a slightly higher rating than calculated. This accounts for energy losses during battery charging and ensures sufficient power for your appliances. By following these steps, you can accurately determine the solar panel size required for your home. This ensures reliable off-grid or on-grid solar energy generation. Using slightly oversized solar panels also maximizes efficiency and accounts for daily variations in sunlight.

Comparing Solar Panel Costs by Type: Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline

If you are looking to install solar panels in 2025, you’ve likely come across two main types: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Both are widely used, both are made from silicon, and both generate clean solar energy. But they differ in appearance, efficiency, cost, and best use cases.

This guide explains the differences between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, their advantages and disadvantages, and which option may be the right choice for your solar panel installation.

How Monocrystalline Solar Panels Are Made

Monocrystalline solar panels are manufactured using a process where a single silicon crystal seed is dipped into molten silicon at around 2,500°F. This creates a cylindrical structure known as an ingot, which is then sliced into wafers.

Because of the cylindrical shape, the wafers are trimmed into square cells with rounded edges. This process wastes more silicon, which increases manufacturing costs, but results in a high-efficiency solar panel.

How Polycrystalline Solar Panels Are Made

Polycrystalline solar panels follow a slightly different process. Instead of pulling out a single silicon crystal, molten silicon is poured into a mold and allowed to cool. As it solidifies, multiple silicon crystals form together, creating the distinctive grainy look of polycrystalline cells.

This method is less expensive, produces less waste, and makes panels that are generally cheaper than monocrystalline panels, though slightly less efficient.

Appearance and Design Differences

Monocrystalline panels are usually dark blue or black with rounded edges. They tend to have a sleek, modern look that blends well with rooftops.
Polycrystalline panels are lighter blue with square edges. They are slightly larger than monocrystalline panels of the same power rating, since they require more surface area to generate the same energy.

For homeowners concerned about aesthetics, monocrystalline panels are often preferred.

Solar Panel Efficiency: Mono vs Poly

Monocrystalline efficiency: 17–22% (with a maximum potential of around 28%).
Polycrystalline efficiency: 15–20% (with a maximum potential of around 23%).

This means monocrystalline panels produce more electricity per square foot, making them ideal for places with limited roof space, such as RVs, vans, or small homes.

Polycrystalline panels, on the other hand, work well on large rooftops or open ground-mount installations where space isn’t a concern.

Performance in Varying Sunlight Conditions

Monocrystalline solar panels perform slightly better in low light and high-temperature conditions. Their voltage output is more stable and less affected by rising cell temperatures compared to polycrystalline panels.

This gives monocrystalline panels an advantage in hot, sunny regions or locations with variable weather.

Cost Comparison of Solar Panels in 2025

Ten years ago, the cost gap between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels was significant. Today, thanks to improved manufacturing technology, the price difference has narrowed considerably.

Monocrystalline solar panels still cost a bit more upfront, but provide better efficiency per watt.
Polycrystalline solar panels are generally cheaper per watt and may provide a better return on investment if you are not limited by roof space.

Which Solar Panel Should You Choose?

Choose Monocrystalline Panels if:
- You have limited roof space.
- You want the most efficient system possible.
- Aesthetics matter to you (sleeker, darker design).
Choose Polycrystalline Panels if:
- You have plenty of roof or ground space.
- You want to minimize upfront installation costs.
- You’re okay with slightly lower efficiency in exchange for cost savings.

Important Tip from Experts

Don’t just assume monocrystalline is always better. If your budget is tight, sometimes a high-quality polycrystalline panel can outperform a cheaper monocrystalline panel. It’s often better to compare value for money per watt rather than only looking at type.

Also, avoid flexible solar panels unless portability is your main priority — they tend to have a short lifespan (only a few years) because they are not good at dissipating heat.

Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are excellent choices for generating clean energy in 2025. The right option depends on your budget, available space, and efficiency needs.

For small spaces and premium efficiency, go with monocrystalline. For larger installations where cost is the priority, polycrystalline panels are often the smarter investment.

How Much Does Solar Panel Installation Really Cost?

Solar Energy Misconceptions and Home Suitability

so is solar right for you according to Heaven Campbell with the non-profit solar United neighbors not every home is a fit for solar whether you’re looking to save money or simply reduce your carbon footprint you may be considering going solar but before you do there are some common misconceptions to clear up Len Isaac and his two-year-old son are sold on solar and these things are absolutely solid Len loves the solar panels set up in his backyard claiming they save his family several thousand dollars a year in electric costs I never have a bill over 30 bucks anymore but not everyone who’s gone solar is happy they’re the panels are Victoria Park says she’s had nothing but problems after paying more than twenty thousand dollars for her rooftop panels last year my financing began in October and I don’t have any solar energy she’s been waiting on repairs for months

Solar Panels Installation and Roof Space Considerations

so is solar right for you according to Heaven Campbell with the non-profit solar United neighbors not every home is a fit for solar tree canopies are going to prevent somebody from going solar Heaven says three s’s help determine if a house is right for solar shading or lack thereof space on your roof and lastly South so south facing is the best Direction in orientation for solar

Solar Panels Cost in 2025 and Long-Term Benefits

and with solar you can’t ignore the cost according to the Center for sustainable energy the price tag on a typical residential system is 15 to 25 thousand dollars before tax credits or incentives even if you’re not a hundred percent solar Heaven says the savings will add up over time because solar is inflation-proof but experts say don’t install solar if you need a new roof or plan to move soon and check a company’s

Solar Panels Cost in 2025: Installation, Maintenance, and Savings

When analyzing solar panels cost in 2025, homeowners must consider more than just upfront solar panel prices. Solar panel cost per watt varies depending on installation, panel efficiency, and long-term solar panel maintenance. A typical residential solar panel installation can save families thousands of dollars each year, especially as energy prices rise.

Solar panel prices in 2025 remain competitive with ranges between fifteen thousand and twenty-five thousand dollars for most systems, before applying government incentives or solar tax credits. By calculating solar panel cost per watt and comparing different solar panel installation packages, homeowners can determine the best return on investment.

For long-term reliability, solar panel maintenance is just as important as the initial purchase. Cleaning panels, checking wiring, and ensuring proper orientation toward the south can maximize efficiency. With the right solar panel installation and maintenance practices, solar panels continue to provide consistent savings and help reduce the carbon footprint for decades.

Hidden Costs of Solar Panels You Should Know Before Buying

Before buying solar panels, it’s important to be aware of potential hidden costs beyond the initial installation price. These can include roof assessment and potential repairs, inverter replacement, solar panel maintenance, insurance, potential grid connection costs, as well as the cost of solar battery storage. Proper planning and budgeting for these factors will help ensure a smooth and cost-effective transition to solar energy.

Roof Assessment and Solar Panel Preparation

Roof condition is crucial. Many budget solar companies might not properly assess your roof’s lifespan before installing panels, which can lead to expensive problems down the road if your roof needs replacing before the solar panels. You may also need to reinforce or repair your roof before installation to ensure it can support the weight of the solar panels and mounting system.

Solar Inverter Replacement Costs

Inverters typically have a shorter lifespan than solar panels. While solar panels can last 25 years or more, inverters usually need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. When planning your solar panel installation, factor in the cost of a new inverter as part of the long-term solar panel maintenance budget.

Ongoing Solar Panel Maintenance and Insurance

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep solar panel systems efficient. While solar panels are relatively low-maintenance, you’ll need to consider the cost of cleaning, inspections, and potential repairs. Insurance is also important since you’ll need to ensure your solar panels are covered under your home insurance policy, which may increase your premium.

Grid Connection and Utility Fees

Some utility companies may charge fees for connecting your solar system to the grid, especially if you’re using net metering. The distance to the grid connection point can also affect costs, as closer connections are typically cheaper. Factoring in these solar panel installation costs is essential for accurate budgeting.

Solar Battery Storage Costs

Battery systems can be one of the most expensive components of solar panel installation. Adding a solar battery storage system significantly increases the initial cost. Batteries also have a shorter lifespan and need replacement more frequently than solar panels, which increases long-term maintenance costs. In some areas with net metering, battery storage may not be cost-effective compared to relying on the grid.

System Oversizing and Energy Needs

Oversizing your solar system can raise upfront costs without necessarily providing significant benefits. While some oversizing is allowed, it’s important to carefully assess your current and future energy needs to determine the appropriate system size. An oversized system may increase your solar panel prices in 2025 without delivering proportional savings.

Additional Considerations for Solar Panel Installation

There are other factors to consider when budgeting for solar panels. Permits and interconnection agreements with local utilities may add extra costs. The type and quality of mounting systems, whether roof or ground mounts, can also impact total solar panel installation prices. Choosing a reputable installer with experience ensures a reliable setup. Finally, your location and climate matter since the amount of sunlight and local weather conditions affect solar panel efficiency and long-term performance.

Solar Panel Cost in 2025: Installation, Maintenance, and Hidden Expenses

Understanding solar panel cost in 2025 goes beyond the sticker price of solar panel installation. Homeowners must factor in roof repairs, inverter replacement, solar panel maintenance, insurance premiums, and even solar battery storage systems. By considering these hidden costs early, you can plan a more realistic solar investment and maximize your savings.

Solar Panel Systems for Small and Medium Households

3 kW solar systems are perfect for a household of three. This system requires about 12 panels and around 21 square meters of roof space. They cost between £5,000 and £6,000 and can generate roughly 2,600 kilowatt-hours per year. 4 kilowatt solar systems are ideal for a four-member household. This setup needs about 16 panels and 28 square meters of roof space. They cost between £6,000 and £8,000 and generate about 3,500 kilowatt-hours annually. Considering solar panel installation costs is essential to maximize energy savings.

Solar Panel Systems for Larger Homes

5 kW systems are designed for larger households. You’ll require about 20 panels and at least 32 square meters of roof space. They cost around £8,000 to £9,000 and generate approximately 4,500 kilowatt-hours per year. 6 kW systems are for even bigger homes. They require about 24 panels and 43 square meters of roof space. They cost between £9,000 and £11,000 and can produce roughly 5,500 kilowatt-hours annually. Whichever system you choose, consider your energy needs, solar panel maintenance, and installation costs carefully.

How Solar Panels Provide Long-Term Savings

Solar power is an investment that pays off in the long run through energy savings and environmental benefits. Understanding solar panel cost per watt helps homeowners calculate their return on investment more effectively. Factors such as the efficiency of solar panels, orientation of your roof, and local solar incentives can affect your overall savings. Regular solar panel maintenance ensures your system runs at peak efficiency for decades.

Choosing the Right Solar Panel System for Your Home

The right solar panel system depends on your household’s energy consumption, roof space, and budget. Comparing solar panels cost in 2025 across multiple providers ensures you get the best value. Solar panel installation quality also plays a crucial role in system longevity and performance. Investing in reliable solar panels reduces repair costs and enhances long-term energy output.

Maximizing Solar Energy Efficiency

Maximizing solar energy requires choosing the optimal system size, proper placement, and ongoing maintenance. Homeowners should calculate energy requirements carefully to avoid overpaying for an oversized system. Understanding solar panel prices in 2025 helps in planning finances and evaluating potential energy savings. Maintaining panels regularly prevents efficiency loss due to dirt, debris, or minor damage.

Planning for Future Solar Energy Needs

Considering future energy demands is essential when selecting a solar panel system. Homes planning expansions or increased electricity usage may benefit from slightly larger systems. Evaluating solar panel cost per watt and installation options ensures sustainable energy generation. By investing in quality solar panels and proper installation, homeowners can enjoy reliable, long-term solar energy solutions.

How Solar Panel Costs Vary Across States and Cities in 2025

Solar Panel Costs in 2025 Across States and Countries

Solar panel costs in 2025 vary significantly across states and cities due to factors like solar panel installation costs, government incentives, and local electricity rates. Generally, residential solar panel systems range from $2.74 to $3.30 per watt including installation. However, regional differences, system size, panel efficiency, and the inclusion of solar battery storage can affect the final solar panel price.

Factors Influencing Solar Panel Cost Variations

Installation Costs: Labor rates, permitting fees, and local regulations can increase or reduce solar panel installation costs.

Government Incentives: Rebates, tax credits, and net metering policies vary by state and can significantly reduce upfront solar panel prices in 2025.

Electricity Rates: Higher electricity rates in some areas lead to faster payback periods, making solar panels more attractive and cost-effective.

System Size: Larger solar panel systems require more panels, inverters, and sometimes more complex installation, which impacts solar panel cost per watt.

Panel Efficiency and Brand: Premium high-efficiency solar panels from reputable brands may cost more initially but offer better long-term performance and energy savings.

Battery Storage: Adding solar battery storage for backup power or to take advantage of time-of-use electricity rates increases the initial investment.

Regional Examples of Solar Panel Price Differences

California: With high electricity rates and strong solar incentives, California often sees lower payback periods and higher solar adoption rates.

Texas: Despite high solar irradiation, Texas lacks strong state-level incentives, which makes solar panel installation costs higher compared to states with robust solar programs.

New York: While solar panel installation costs are higher, New York offers strong government incentives and faces high electricity rates, making solar energy still a viable option for many homeowners, according to a 2025 guide from HBOWA New Energy, reports Techpoint Africa.

Solar Panel Cost Breakdown in 2025

System Cost: A 6kW solar panel system in California might cost around $16,800, while a similar system in New York could be closer to $21,600, according to the Photovoltaic Panels Price Guide from HBOWA New Energy.

Cost Per Watt: Average solar panel cost per watt in 2025 can range from $2.80/W to $3.75/W, depending on location and system specifications.

Solar Panel Prices in Nigeria in 2025

In Nigeria, residential solar panel systems can range from ₦2,000,000 to ₦5,000,000, according to a guide from Solar Depot Nigeria. Commercial solar panel installations can range from ₦10,000,000 to ₦50,000,000, depending on system size and components.

Specific prices for solar panels in Nigeria, such as Jinko Solar and LONGi Solar, can vary between ₦50,000 and ₦130,000, according to Techpoint Africa.

Understanding solar panel cost in 2025 requires more than looking at the national average. Factors like government incentives, solar panel installation fees, solar battery storage, and cost per watt breakdowns vary by location. Whether in California, Texas, New York, or Nigeria, knowing these differences helps homeowners and businesses plan better for solar adoption and long-term savings.

Calculating Solar Panel Cost for a 5kW Home System

A 5kW solar panel system for a home typically costs between $5,000 and $11,500 fully installed, depending on location, installation fees, equipment quality, and solar panel efficiency. The total solar panel cost can also be influenced by retail competition, government rebates, and the choice of system components such as inverters, batteries, and mounting systems.

Factors Influencing 5kW Solar Panel System Costs

Location and Local Regulations

Installation costs and local building codes vary by state or city, directly affecting the overall solar panel installation price.

Equipment Quality and Brands

Higher-quality solar panels and inverters — such as the Fronius GEN24 inverter — generally cost more upfront but offer better performance, warranties, and long-term reliability.

Panel Type: Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline

Monocrystalline panels are more efficient and space-saving but usually more expensive.
Polycrystalline panels are a budget-friendly option with lower efficiency but reduced upfront solar panel prices, according to ShopSolar.com.

Installation and Labor Costs

Professional solar installation, including permits, inspections, and electrical work, contributes to the total system cost. Choosing an experienced installer ensures safety, efficiency, and compliance with local regulations.

System Size and Number of Panels

A 5kW solar system usually requires 12 to 17 solar panels, depending on wattage output. For example, using 300W panels may require more panels than using 400W panels.

Example 5kW Solar Panel Installation Costs

A 5kW solar system with 12 panels and a Fronius GEN24 inverter, fully installed, might cost around $11,500, according to Harrisons Solar NZ.
In Victoria, Australia, the average cost of a 5kW solar system is about $5,297, reports solarcalculator.com.au.
In Brisbane, Australia, a 5kW system may cost $5,580 with a 3.9-year payback period, according to Solar Choice.
In Melbourne, Australia, a similar system might cost $5,420 with a 4.8-year payback period, says Solar Choice.

Other Considerations for a 5kW Solar Panel System

Annual Electricity Savings

A 5kW solar system can save a household in Sydney, Australia, about $2,100 annually on electricity bills, according to EcoFlow.

Impact on Home Value

Installing solar panels can potentially increase property value by making homes more energy-efficient and lowering electricity bills for future buyers.

Planning for Future Energy Needs

When choosing your solar system size, consider future energy usage such as electric vehicles, home expansions, or additional appliances. Oversizing slightly may save costs in the long run.

Is a 5kW Solar Panel System Worth It in 2025?

A 5kW solar panel system remains one of the most popular options for residential solar in 2025, offering a balance between cost and savings. With average installation prices ranging from $5,000 to $11,500, homeowners can expect a 3–5 year solar payback period, depending on their location, incentives, and electricity rates. When paired with a reliable inverter and installed by a reputable company, a 5kW solar system can deliver decades of clean energy, thousands in savings, and a strong return on investment.

Is Investing in Solar Panels in 2025 Worth It?

When you weigh the costs, savings, and environmental benefits, it’s clear that solar energy remains one of the smartest investments in 2025. For homeowners and businesses alike, solar delivers consistent value in a world of rising electricity prices and unstable grid supply.

Key Reasons Solar is Worth It for Nigerian Households and Businesses

1. Long-Term Financial Savings

By switching to solar, households and businesses can save millions of naira over the system’s lifetime. With electricity tariffs expected to keep rising, a solar panel system can lock in predictable energy costs and drastically reduce reliance on expensive grid power or diesel generators.

2. Energy Independence

Nigeria faces frequent power cuts and high generator fuel costs. Installing solar panels, especially with battery backup, gives households and businesses uninterrupted electricity supply and greater independence from unreliable grid systems.

3. Strong Return on Investment (ROI)

Solar panels typically last 25+ years. Most systems in Nigeria achieve payback in 3–6 years, after which the electricity they generate is essentially free. Businesses, in particular, benefit from lower operating costs and improved profitability.

4. Environmental Impact

By adopting solar energy, Nigerians can significantly reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. This contributes to cleaner air, healthier communities, and alignment with global renewable energy goals.

5. Incentives and Market Growth

As more Nigerians embrace solar, prices for panels and batteries continue to fall, while local suppliers (like Solar Depot Nigeria, Lumos, and others) expand financing options, making it easier than ever to go solar in 2025.

Solar power in 2025 is not just a trend it’s a necessity. With rising electricity costs, unstable grid supply, and the financial drain of diesel, investing in solar offers Nigerians a future-proof solution that pays for itself. Whether for a small household or a large business, solar is a long-term investment that delivers energy security, cost savings, and sustainability.

Top 5 Solar Panels in 2025 and Their Price Ranges

Choosing the Right Solar Panels in 2025

You might be looking to buy solar panels and thinking which solar panels should I buy? What should I look for when comparing solar panels? Today I’m going to be training you on what you should be asking your installer so you know the right questions to ask so you don’t make any financial mistakes. I’m going to be looking at warranty. looking at the types of products and physically showing and demonstrating the difference between them all today, so you can choose the right manufacturer for you, the right wattage and more importantly, the right type of solar panel. I’m also going to be revealing the panel for I’ve got my very own house.

Understanding Solar Panel Size and Efficiency

Now, when you’re on the ground, it’s often difficult to get the perspective of how big or how small they are. I’m six foot tall and these solar panels are 1.75m tall by 1.1m wide, bigger than what we think, but they’re still quite light. They weigh between 20 and 25 kilos considering all that’s packed inside. Now, you might also be thinking, how many solar panels do I need? There’s a rule of thumb: if a solar panel is 440W and it’s a reasonable efficiency 22% south facing, you’ll generate about 350kW per panel per year. So if you’ve got a 3500 kilowatt home usage, then ten solar panels will generate about the same. The further away from south that we go, or if we change the pitch angle, that can ultimately affect the generation. When we say 440W, what we actually mean is the peak output under standard test conditions.

Solar Panel Energy Output in Different Regions

The closer to the equator we go, the more light we get. In English terms, if you’re down in Dorset, you’re going to get a great deal of light. If you’re up in Scotland, you’ll get less. The MCS, who’s our regulator, actually breaks down the likely irradiance level you’re going to get depending upon your postcode region. So that’s something you can calculate at the point of design. If you’re east facing, west facing, or south facing, you can essentially predict how much solar energy your system is going to generate.

Solar Panels Cost in 2025, Solar Panel Prices, and Installation Guide

One of the biggest myths is that solar panels need to have a clear sky in order to work. The reality is they need sunlight. As long as it’s bright, even with cloud coverage, solar panels will still operate. With modern methods of solar panel manufacturing, panels can work in much lower light levels. This helps especially in winter, as your inverter converts the power the solar panels are generating even at lower light levels. Most solar energy generation is done between March and October, but you will still generate power during winter, though less than your full household needs.

I’m going to try and keep this simple. There are a couple of different solar panel manufacturing methods you need to be aware of. The older type is polycrystalline, which is now less common. The main focus is on monocrystalline panels. Monocrystalline breaks down into two types: P-type and N-type. P-type is the older method and should be avoided. Instead, focus on N-type solar panels, which are more modern, perform better in low light, and have much better warranties.

Comparing Solar Panel Types for Efficiency and Price

The first panel I’ve got with me here is a monofacial all black panel. Up close, you can see the individual solar cells, but from a distance, it looks like a black sheet of glass. This particular panel is a Jinko 440W N-type. It has a black framework and a black back sheet, making it aesthetically appealing. Monofacial means only one side has solar cells, making it suitable for in-roof solar systems where the back doesn’t receive much light. On the other hand, bifacial solar panels, which are translucent, can capture light on both sides, providing up to 5% more energy generation on typical roof systems, or higher on solar farms or flat roof systems.

The white back sheet panels are the budget option. They are cheaper, often 30-40% less in cost compared to monofacial black back sheet panels. These are suitable for situations where aesthetics don’t matter, such as flat roofs or solar panels facing a field. Despite being lower cost, they often provide higher wattages and are cost-effective.

Solar Panel Warranties and Long-Term Costs

Next is warranties. Some cheaper solar panels have a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. Most high-quality N-type panels now come with a 25-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty. Degradation rates are typically about 0.5% per year, meaning after 30 years, you can expect about 85% of the original wattage. Always ensure the warranty is insurance-backed. Top manufacturers like Jinko, JA Solar, LONGi, and ACO provide insurance-backed warranties. Remember that warranties often only cover the solar panel module itself, not labor or scaffolding. This is where an installer’s insurance and workmanship warranty become critical.

Where to Buy Affordable Solar Panels Without Compromising Quality

Finding Affordable Bifacial Solar Panels Locally

This solar panel is a Talison 400W bifacial solar panel and I recently purchased this for only $150. I actually bought three of them for $450, so $150 a piece. In this video I want to show you a way to make sure that you’re not getting ripped off when you purchase large format solar panels. For example, take a look at these panels. BRV has a similar 400W solar panel they’re selling for $600. I hope you don’t think you’re getting a good deal when you purchase two EcoFlow 400W solar panels either at $500 each. Renogy is selling their new 450W bifacial panels for around $360 each. Don’t be fooled, these high prices are everywhere online, and there are much cheaper solar panel prices available.

To be clear, these are brand new, unused, unmounted solar panels. I bet you are wondering where you can pick up solar panels this cheap. You can pick them up locally and you don’t even have to pay shipping. Let’s jump into the secret.

Searching for Solar Panel Deals on Facebook Marketplace

Here I am on Facebook Marketplace and I want to check a few different cities around the country to see what’s currently available. Right now, I’m currently searching in San Diego, California with a radius of 40 miles and I have “400 watt solar panel” in the search criteria. This is what came up.

The first option here is four Canadian Solar 395W solar panels. These are brand new, and they are selling four of them for $750, which is about $185 each. Remember, you don’t have to pay sales tax or shipping, so this is a good deal. Now, you want to focus on the brand new solar panels. People are going to be selling a lot of used panels. These ones here look like a little bit older technology, but these are 12 Hana Q Cells, 315W solar panels, and they’re only selling these for $120 each.

Solar Panel Prices in Salt Lake and Texas

In Salt Lake, I searched for the same thing, 400W solar panels. The first one that pops up is the Talison 400W bifacial solar panel option. These are the same panels that I purchased. This is a different seller. I got mine a little bit cheaper, but it looks like they have 11 of these selling for $2,000, right around $180 each. Unfortunately, they’re only selling this in one lot, so maybe in a week or two they’ll get desperate and want to sell them individually.

Another option is XN Shine 405W solar panels, selling for $200 each. That’s actually decent. Trina 325W solar panels are listed for $97 each. These are likely leftover from an install. Not a bad price for 325W solar panels.

Now in San Antonio, Texas, with the same search “400W solar panel,” there are listings for brand new 400W Hell solar panels at $140 each. That’s a really good price for solar panels cost per watt. Talison 400W bifacial solar panels are also available at $180 each in Cedar Creek, Texas.

Solar Panel Costs in Ohio and Florida

In Columbus, Ohio, I found 545W solar panels for $150 each. These are bifacial solar panels, which is excellent. Talison bifacial 400W panels are available for $175 each. Another listing shows brand new 370W solar panels with a 25-year warranty from Zenstein Solar.

In Orlando, Florida, solar panel searches show Evers 410W solar panels for $225 each. I actually have these panels installed on my carport, and they provide great solar panel output. Other listings show Trina 330W monocrystalline solar panels at $140 each. Hyperion 400W bifacial solar panels are listed at $152 each, but you need to purchase a pallet of 36 panels to get that price.

Solar Panel Cost Per Watt, Installation, and Maintenance in 2025

If you find a listing on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, here are tips:

Only pick up new solar panels. Used solar panels are usually sold for a reason, and while they may look cheap, they won’t perform as well.

If you don’t see what you like, wait a week or two. New listings appear often, especially closer to summer.

Solar panels are heavy, so bring help when loading or unloading them.

Bring test equipment, such as a voltmeter or a power station, to confirm voltage and power from each solar panel before buying.

Negotiate for the best solar panel prices. Don’t lowball, but you can often save a little more when buying locally.

Buying Solar Panels Online at Discount Prices

If you don’t have Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist options near you, you can still find cheaper solar panels online. One of the best sites is Signature Solar. They sell Canadian Solar 400W solar panels for $156 each, but you need to buy at least 10. The benefit is free shipping during their solar Valentine sale, which saves a lot of money. Hyperion 400W bifacial solar panels are priced at $136 each, and Aptos 400W bifacial solar panels are $216 each.

Another site is Santan Solar. They sell a lot of used solar panels, but you can filter for new solar panels. For example, ZN Shine 410W solar panels are $176 each with a minimum purchase of 10. Q Cell 340W solar panels are $129 each with a minimum purchase of 10.

There are multiple ways to purchase large format solar panels at affordable prices. From Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist to online retailers like Signature Solar and Santan Solar, you can save a lot of money on solar panel installation and solar panel maintenance in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why are solar panel prices so different between online and local suppliers?
Online suppliers often add shipping, handling, and reseller markups, while local sellers (such as contractors or installers with excess stock) can offer lower, tax-free, and no-shipping deals. That’s why buying locally through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can save you hundreds per panel.

2. What hidden costs of solar panels should I watch out for?
Beyond the panel price, factor in mounting hardware, inverters, batteries (if off-grid), wiring, and labor. Also, some sellers advertise cheap panels but add high freight costs—always check shipping terms.

3. How much do solar panels really cost in 2025?
In 2025, brand new bifacial 400W–450W panels can be found locally for $140–$180 each, while online retailers often sell the same panels for $300–$600 each. Bulk purchases and seasonal promotions can drop costs even lower.

4. How can I avoid overpaying for solar panels?
Compare panel wattage-to-price ratio, verify condition (new vs. used), ask for spec sheets, and negotiate locally. Always calculate cost per watt ($/W)—a good deal in 2025 is between $0.30–$0.45 per watt.

5. Are there government incentives or rebates that lower solar costs?
Yes. In the U.S., the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of installation costs from your taxes through 2032. Many states and utilities also offer rebates, net metering credits, and renewable energy certificates that can slash your payback time.

6. Do solar panel costs differ between residential and commercial projects?
Yes. Commercial projects often buy panels in bulk at wholesale pricing and qualify for larger tax incentives. Residential buyers typically pay more per panel but can save significantly by purchasing locally and installing DIY or semi-DIY systems.