Average Cost of Solar Panels in Maryland
There isn’t a clear, one-size-fits-all answer to “How much do home solar panels cost?” But in Howard County and the surrounding area, there are averages. According to the Office of People’s Council, solar panel costs in Maryland can range from $10,000 to $30,000. Angi averages it out to $26,544. This is before any incentives or rebates kick in.
Factors That Affect the Cost
Solar panel installation costs vary based on a few main factors:
- System Size: Most of the time, the cost of solar panels for a home is priced per watt. The larger a system is, the more expensive it will be. Most homes need around 6 – 10 kilowatts. This equates to 15 to 34 panels, depending on wattage.
- Energy Goals: If you want to offset all of your home’s energy use, it will take more solar panels and be more expensive.
- Location: Where you live influences costs. Urban homes tend to cost more than rural ones.
- Installation Difficulty: Your roof’s construction impacts total costs. Installers will have more difficulty adding solar panels to a steeply sloping roof.
- Panel Type: Solar panels come in different types. Monocrystalline are more efficient but cost more than polycrystalline.
Benefits of Installing Solar Panels
Adding solar panels to your home is one of the first steps towards whole-home electrification. With a large enough system, you can power your entire household’s energy usage. The more you electrify your home (heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric stovetops, etc.), the more you’ll benefit from solar panels.
Lower Utility Bills
Electricity bills are expensive. Solar panels produce their own electricity, so by using them, you can reduce your monthly electric bills. If you choose to electrify your home with other equipment like heat pumps and power them with solar panels, you can eliminate gas or oil costs.
More Environmentally Friendly
60% of the electricity produced by the grid comes from fossil fuels. By using solar power, you reduce your reliance on grid power. It’s better for the planet and more sustainable.
Energy Independence
If you install solar panels with a solar battery system, you aren’t fully dependent on the grid. If the power ever goes out, you’ll have backup energy to keep the lights on.
Enjoy a No-Cost Solar Panel Installation With CAC
An average of $10,000-$30,000 for solar is a lot for most families. With CAC, however, income-eligible households in Maryland may qualify for a solar installation at no cost! If you meet the program’s requirements, CAC can find skilled contractors to complete your solar installation. You must:
- Live in Maryland
- Own your own home
- Have an asphalt shingle roof
- Have received or will receive weatherization services
- Meet income requirements
Solar is just one part of our broader home weatherization assistance program. We also provide no-cost services for:
