Solar Panel System Costs; Now vs. Then

solar panel system costs

Solar panel system costs have come way down since the late 1980s and early 1990s when solar technology was still considered a novelty. Today, solar power is not just a novelty for tech folks, it’s a mainstream energy source, and the prices for solar panels and system equipment have become much more affordable for consumers. 

Solar Panel System Costs – The 1980s and 1990s

To put things into perspective, let’s start by looking at the cost of solar panels in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Back then, solar panels were expensive and only available through specific networks and channels. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the cost of solar panels in the early 1990s was around $10 per watt. That’s around $20 per watt when adjusted for inflation, significantly higher than the cost of solar panels today.

Fast forward to today, and the cost of solar panels has dropped significantly. According to the SEIA, the average cost of solar panels in the US in 2021 was $2.81 per watt. That’s a drop of around 72% compared to the cost in the early 1990s. 

Solar Panel System Costs – Installation 

In the early days of consumer solar technology, solar panel installations were typically done by DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists, maybe electricians. As with any tech and early adoption, it’s usually enthusiasts who get involved and prefer to do the work themselves. It’s hard to say what the average installation cost was 30-40 years ago because there were so few solar panel installers in operation.

Today, however, solar panel installation is most often done by professionals. According to EnergySage, the cost of a solar panel installation in the US in 2021 ranged from $11,144 to $14,696, depending on the size of the system. This cost includes not just the cost of the solar panels themselves but also labor and other materials needed for the installation.

Despite solar arrays still being a significant home investment, more and more people are opting for solar energy systems. One reason for this is the availability of financing options. Many solar companies offer financing options that allow homeowners to spread out the cost of the system over a longer period, making it more affordable. In addition, there are also federal and state incentives that can help offset the cost of a solar panel system. For example, homeowners in Texas can take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit

Solar Is Winning

Of course, long-term savings are a key driving incentive for people to adopt solar. On average, homeowners or property owners will pay off the system installation costs within 8-13 years and reap the financial benefits for decades. 

Overall, the costs of solar panels have dropped significantly over the years. With financing options, state and federal tax incentives, and long-term energy savings, solar has attracted more than just techy enthusiasts.

If you’re considering a solar panel system for your home, it’s important to do your research and work with one of the best solar companies in Texas. As one of the premier Houston solar installers, we’d be delighted to start the conversation regarding your next project. 

Click the link to start and get your free quote.

 

Texas Plastic

Sunshine Renewable Solutions to Help Formosa Plastics of Point Comfort, Texas, Achieve Sustainability Goals

Formosa Plastics is a major producer of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride resins, which are widely used in various industries worldwide. Recognizing its role in environmental stewardship, Formosa Plastics sought to collaborate with a reputable sustainability consultant who can provide solutions to reduce its impact on the environment.

Sunshine Renewable Solutions is a leading sustainability consulting firm that specializes in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. The company has a team of experts who help clients identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and implement sustainable practices through solar power.

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Sunshine Renewable Solutions proudly partners with a leading Texas-based plastic manufacturer, embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to fortify its commitment to sustainability.

By integrating solar energy solutions, we're revolutionizing their environmental impact. Our collaborative efforts aim to construct a robust solar infrastructure, harnessing renewable energy to power their operations efficiently.

Together, we're spearheading a transformative shift towards renewable practices, demonstrating how solar power can drive industrial progress while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Sunshine Renewable Solutions is honored to work hand-in-hand with this industry leader, fostering a brighter, greener future through the strategic implementation of solar energy solutions.

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Creating The Foundation

As the foundational step in our partnership, the construction of concrete piers for the solar panel structure marks a pivotal milestone in our solar energy initiative. These concrete piers serve as the bedrock of support for the entire solar infrastructure, providing stability and durability essential for the efficient functioning of the solar array.

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Precision And Accuracy Are Paramount

Our engineering team meticulously plans and designs the layout of the piers, ensuring they are strategically positioned to uphold the solar panel array's weight and withstand environmental factors such as wind and inclement weather. We adhere to industry standards and best practices to create a robust foundation that guarantees the longevity and resilience of the solar installation.

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A Solid Foundation

Environmental considerations are taken into account throughout the construction process, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy production to encompass responsible construction practices.

By establishing these concrete piers foundations, we are ready to start Phase 2, erecting the metal support bars. Enabling the subsequent installation of solar panels will power the plastic manufacturer's operations while significantly reducing their carbon footprint.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.

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