I've been diving into solar energy and trying to understand the pricing structure, but I'm hitting a wall. I found a site that lists the average cost of solar panel systems for each state, but when I compare that to what I can get panels for individually, it just doesn't add up. For example, I found a deal where I could buy 30 solar panels (320 watts each) from Home Depot for around $7,000. That's roughly 9,600 watts of paneling. However, according to that price site, a complete 9.7 kW system is priced around $22,000. Am I missing something here, or is the installation labor really that expensive? I've tried looking for answers, but most info is buried under SEO ads and lacks clear direction on DIY projects.
3 Answers
You're right, the cost difference can seem shocking. A lot of people just consider the panels and miss all the logistical aspects that professional installations cover. When you DIY, you save on many of those costs, and often the hardware comes in much cheaper than average installation prices. Just like you noted, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort to learn, you could save a bundle!
Exactly! Panels are only a small fraction of the total system cost. When you see a quote for a 9.7 kW system, it often factors in not just the panels but also the inverter, cabling, installation, and all the paperwork involved (like building permits, etc.). DIY installations can significantly reduce costs because you avoid a lot of the overhead that professional companies have to deal with. If you're set on doing it yourself and can handle the installation, you could potentially pay about a third of that $22k quote.
You're onto something! The panels themselves are just a piece of the puzzle. When you get quotes for solar systems, they typically include much more than just the panels, like mounting brackets, wiring, inverters, permits, and perhaps even batteries if needed. Going DIY can save you a lot since you're not paying for installation labor and other associated business costs. Just remember, while the hardware may seem cheap, the overall system has a lot of hidden costs you might not see at first glance.