For more information, please visit our website.

1. Home
2. Reviews
3. Solar

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in ?

By Alex Hawkins

Join the 6,755 people who have received a free, no-obligation quote in the last 30 days

Get Estimate

Join the 6,755 people who have received a free, no-obligation quote in the last 30 days

All products and services featured are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Solar panel costs typically range from $17,430 to $23,870, but many homeowners will pay around $20,650 on average. Solar panels are a considerable investment. Various factors influence your project price, including the panels you choose, your home&#;s energy needs, and applicable state and federal tax incentives.

We have conducted in-depth research on the best solar companies in the United States and the industry overall. This guide breaks down the significant factors that influence what solar panels cost, as well as the national average for a solar energy system.

Compare Top Solar Companies

Note: All cost data in this article is based on data from EnergySage, Consumer Affairs, Home Advisor, and Angi.

Average Cost of Solar Panels

Though solar pricing varies by location, system size, and other project variables, EnergySage data shows these figures as the national average:

Price SpectrumAverage CostLow end$17,430Middle$20,650High end$23,870

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Each State?

Solar panel costs can vary according to your state&#;s energy rates and access to solar technology. Check the table below to get an idea of what solar panels might cost you in your state.

StateAverage Cost Per Watt*Average Cost for 6 kW System*Average Federal Tax Credit ValueAlabama$2.45$14,700$4,410Alaska$2.41$14,460$4,338Arizona$2.44$14,640$4,392Arkansas$3.06$18,360$5,508California$2.86$17,160$5,148Colorado$3.44$20,640$6,192Connecticut$3.22$19,320$5,796Delaware$2.75$16,500$4,950Florida$2.58$15,480$4,644Georgia$3.20$19,200$5,760Hawaii$2.67$16,020$4,806Idaho$2.93$17,580$5,274Illinois$3.16$18,960$5,688Indiana$3.63$21,780$6,534Iowa$3.45$20,700$6,210Kansas$2.39$14,340$4,302Kentucky$2.34$14,040$4,212Louisiana$3.17$19,020$5,706Maine$3.45$20,700$6,210Maryland$3.13$18,780$5,634Massachusetts$3.54$21,240$6,372Michigan$3.78$22,680$6,858Minnesota$3.45$20,700$6,210Mississippi$2.64$15,840$4,752Missouri$2.85$17,100$5,130Montana$2.42$14,520$4,356Nebraska$2.83$16,980$5,094Nevada$2.60$15,600$4,680New Hampshire$3.61$21,660$6,498New Jersey$2.95$17,700$5,310New Mexico$3.39$20,340$6,102New York$3.48$20,880$6,264North Carolina$3.04$18,240$5,472North Dakota$2.42$14,520$4,356Ohio$2.98$17,880$5,364Oklahoma$2.62$15,720$4,716Oregon$3.02$18,780$5,634Pennsylvania$3.06$18,360$5,508Rhode Island$3.61$21,660$6,498South Carolina$2.89$17,340$5,202South Dakota$2.39$14,340$4,302Tennessee$2.97$17,820$5,346Texas$2.77$16,620$4,986Utah$2.69$16,140$4,842Vermont$3.14$18,840$5,652Virginia$3.04$18,240$5,472Washington$3.25$19,500$5,850West Virginia$2.92$17,520$5,256Wisconsin$3.41$20,460$6,138Wyoming$2.57$15,420$4,626

Solar Panel Cost Breakdown

EnergySage estimates that the national average cost for a typical 6-kilowatt (kW, or 6,000 watts) residential rooftop solar system is roughly $20,650 before any federal tax credits or local incentives.* Overall, you should expect to pay anywhere between $17,430 and $23,870, depending on your system size and location.

The total cost of a solar system includes solar panel prices, which vary in price by brand and type, installation labor, system size, and additional equipment. A solar installation company will charge a combination of labor costs and a price per watt for each solar panel.

*Based on a June report.

Types of Solar Panels

The type of solar panel you order will influence your total price. Below is a breakdown of the three most popular types of solar panels and their average price. 

• Monocrystalline:

  Monocrystalline panels are considered the most efficient solar panels , with an average efficiency rate of 24%.

   However, they are also the most costly. The

  average cost

  for

  monocrystalline

  solar panels is $1 to $1.50 per watt. Therefore, a standard

  6kW system costs

  between $6,000 and $9,000.

• Polycrystalline:

  Polycrystalline panels

  are a more cost-effective option

  up front

  . However, they feature a lower efficiency rate than mono panels, at an average of 20%. The

  average cost

  for polycrystalline solar panels is $0.90 to $1 per watt, or $5,400 to $6, total for a 6 kW system.

• Thin-film:

  Thin-film solar panels are less popular for

  residential solar systems

  . They tend to cost around

  $0.70 to $1 per watt

  . That&#;s roughly

  $4,200 to $6,000

  total for a 6 kW system. 

 

Labor

Installation costs&#;including labor and permits&#;average around 25% of the cost of the solar panel system itself. So, for example, if you purchase a 6-kW monocrystalline solar panel system for $20,000, then a solar installation company will likely charge approximately around $25,000 for the system and the installation, combined. The installation of a larger system will naturally increase labor costs.

System Size

Determining the right system size for your property requires looking at a few factors: energy needs, roof size, and layout. You can determine how much energy it typically takes to power your home by looking at your monthly electric bill. We&#;ve included more on this in the next section. The size and shape of your roof, or wherever you intend to install the panels, also influences the system you can install. EnergySage estimates that the typical household needs an average of 19 panels to fulfill its electricity needs, which is roughly a 7-kW system.

Additional Equipment

Residential solar systems also typically require a battery to store energy and an inverter, which converts the variable direct current (DC) output of your PV solar panels into alternating current (AC). Most solar companies will include these components in your solar system&#;s design. However, if you request specific brands of inverters or batteries, they may come at a premium.

Get your Solar quote today

Solar Incentives and Rebates

Most states offer several solar tax credits and rebates that help purchasers save money, incentivizing them to switch to solar and power their homes more sustainably. You can check on your state&#;s Department of Energy website to learn which programs are available in your area and on websites such as EnergySage and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

Common state-level solar incentives include:

• Renewable energy tax credits

• Sales and property tax exemptions

• Solar easements and right-to-solar laws

At the local level, many utility companies offer net-metering programs that allow solar owners to send any excess energy their system generates to the power grid, earning them credits in return. If the system owner ever needs to rely on the power grid for electricity during cloudy days or at night, they can use their credits to pay their utility bill.

The biggest financial incentive is the federal solar tax credit (ITC). This federal-level credit lets solar buyers claim 30% of the total system cost on their income taxes the year of installation. However, this credit is only for those who own their system, meaning anyone who buys it outright or via a solar loan. Those with a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA) are not eligible.

We recommend using the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) to see which solar rebates and state tax credits you can receive.

Other Factors to Consider About Solar Panel Costs

In addition to the cost per watt for each solar panel, other factors influence the overall cost of a solar power system. We have listed some of the most critical factors for you below. 

Energy Needs

 

Take note of your current cost of electricity, as switching to solar may or may not save you money on your energy costs. The larger your home and higher your monthly electric bill, the more benefits you are likely to see from switching to solar. A solar system can eliminate a homeowner&#;s electricity bill in some instances.

On the other hand, if you already have relatively low utility bills, you may not see enough savings to justify the expense of installing a home solar system. 

Location

The location of your home plays a vital role in how much money solar panels can save you. Using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the data analysis site Stacker determined that states such as Arizona, California, Colorado, and Florida are among the sunniest in the country, making these top locations to get great sun exposure. The sunnier the state and the higher the electricity rate, the more return on investment that location will see.

Roof Type

You can use a solar panel system even if you don&#;t live in these blue-sky states. Most solar panel installers use photovoltaic (PV) panels, which can absorb both direct and indirect sunlight. However, these solar panels generate the most energy on angled roofs that allow maximum sun exposure. On the other hand, a flat roof will require the construction of angled platforms, which will add to your labor costs and increase the overall cost of your solar system installation. 

Additionally, south-, west- or southwest-facing roofs get more sun exposure. For example, a home that experiences less shade and has a south-facing roof with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees will receive the most sunlight. Therefore, these homes receive and retain more solar energy. On the other hand, a home with trees around it or in a less sunny region, like the Pacific Northwest, may not save as much money as a homeowner in Arizona or California. 

Your roof&#;s age and structural soundness will also influence the overall cost of solar panel installation. Repairing your roof or upgrading your roofing material to support panels will come at an additional expense ahead of installation and affect your total cost.

Payment Options

Solar providers offer various payment methods that influence how cost-effective your investment in solar is. Here are the four payment options you can choose from with most solar companies: 

• Purchase:

  Paying for your solar system up-front is the most cost-effective payment method for a solar system. Not only will you avoid paying interest over time, but you will also be eligible to file for the federal tax credit at your next income-tax filing.

• Solar Loan:

  Solar companies

  understand that not every

  homeowner

  is willing or able to pay for their system

  up-front

  , so they partner with a lending company to provide loan options. As with all bank loans, your interest rate will depend on your credit score.

• Solar Lease:

  Some homeowners may elect to lease their solar panel systems. With this arrangement, the

  solar company

  still owns the system, and you pay a set monthly amount for the installed solar panels. This option is not as

  cost-effective

  over time as purchasing or financing your system, as you are not eligible to receive state or federal incentives. However, you avoid paying hefty up-front sums.

• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA):

  A solar PPA lets you pay little to nothing for the actual installation of the PV system. Instead, you pay monthly payments to a utility company based on the energy generated by the system. Think of this as if you are paying for your usual electricity bill. As with a lease, you don&#;t own the system and are thus ineligible for tax incentives.

Are Solar Panels Worth the Cost?

In most cases, solar panels are worth the cost. Transitioning to clean energy saves you money and reduces your carbon footprint, fossil fuel use, and greenhouse gas emissions. Nonetheless, the worth of solar panels varies across households and locations.

There are a few things to consider when determining whether solar panels are worth it for you, such as:

• Your energy usage:

  If you have a smaller home, don&#;t use many appliances, and tend to keep the lights off, you may not use enough power to make switching to solar worth the investment. The cost of electricity in your area also plays a role. The higher the cost, the more value you&#;ll get from going solar.

• Your payback period:

  If it takes an excessive amount of time to pay off your panels before you can start enjoying the energy savings, you may be better off financially not getting a system. Read more about

  payback periods

  .

• Your property location and position:

  Those in areas that see year-round sun will get more value from solar panels, as will those whose roofs get good sun exposure.

• Your roof size and dimensions:

  The best place to install solar panels for most households is on the roof due to fewer obstructions to solar exposure. If your roof is too small or oddly laid out to fit the number of panels you need, getting a system may not be worth it.

One thing that may make getting solar panels worth it is increased property value. The U.S. Department of Energy&#;s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that your home value increases by $20 for every $1 you save on your utility bills. If your solar panel system saves you $800 per year, that translates to an added $16,000 to your home value. Learn more about how to determine if solar panels are worth it for you.

Hidden Costs of Solar

Maintenance, energy storage, and other costs are necessary to protect your system and get the most value out of it. Common associated costs include the following:

• Cleaning:

  Your panels may need professional cleaning from time to time. Rainfall may be enough to keep your panels clear of debris, but if you live in an area prone to wildfires, dust, or heavy pollen, this layer of debris can prevent your panels from performing at their best.

• Insurance:

  Installing solar panels often comes with a home insurance increase. Some states require solar-specific insurance in addition to your usual insurance coverage.

• Maintenance:

  Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Most installers recommend examining panels every few years to inspect wiring and connections. The cost of professional maintenance isn&#;t substantial, but it&#;s one to be aware of.

• Property tax:

  Most states waive property taxes on any additional home value installing solar equipment gives you, but if yours is one of the few that doesn&#;t, you&#;ll see your tax bill go up.

  GECONA SOLAR Product Page

• Repairs:

  There are occasions when solar panels require repair work if there&#;s a bad storm or you notice they&#;re not performing as they normally do. If insurance doesn&#;t cover repairs, you&#;ll have to pay out of pocket.

• Roof work

  : If your roof is old or damaged, you must address this before installing panels. You don&#;t want to install panels over any damage, and a roof that&#;s 10 years or less from needing replacement should just be taken care of before laying down panels. Depending on your roof&#;s condition, this can be the highest or second-highest hidden cost.

• Solar battery:

  Many homeowners purchase

  solar batteries

  with their systems. Solar batteries store excess energy and let you use this energy to power your home at night, during blackouts, or when utility rates are high.

• System monitoring:

  If you opt to use a solar company&#;s active monitoring, there&#;s sometimes a monthly fee included.

Solar Panel System Installation

Most solar companies follow these steps for installations:

1. Site evaluation:

   An installer will visit your home to confirm the planned design and estimate the scope of work. This person or their team will also inspect your roof, attic, and electrical setup.

2. Permit approval:

   Most states require a permit to install solar panels. Your solar provider should handle the paperwork with your local municipality.

3. Installation:

   Installation typically takes one to three days. You don&#;t need to be home for it, but we recommend it so you can ask questions.

4. Cleanup:

   Installers should remove debris and leave your property in good condition.

5. City inspection:

   Your provider should coordinate with your city to have an inspector check that your system is up to code.

6. Utility connection:

   Your system must be connected to your local utility system if you&#;re connecting it to the grid. You&#;ll apply for connection through your utility company. Your utility company will also want to inspect your system to ensure it follows its utility guidelines. You can turn your system on after you get permission to operate.

Our Recommendation

Residential solar panels help you cut electricity costs and carbon emissions. Installing solar panels may be a good choice if your location has high electricity costs, solar incentives to help you save money, and a reasonable payback period so you see energy savings sooner.

You can use the tool below to get a sense of what solar costs are like in your ZIP code.

Homeowners Save $20,000 to $97,000 with Solar Panels on Average Over Typical System Life Span

Get a Quote on Your Solar Installation in 30 Seconds

Get Free Quote

Solar Panel Costs FAQ

Is solar energy a good investment?

As the solar industry continues to grow and the average cost of solar panels continues to decrease, solar energy is panning out to be a good investment for many homeowners. Choosing renewable energy can result in a considerable reduction in your electricity bill. Additionally, various tax incentives, like state-issued Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) and the federal solar tax credit, may allow you to earn more money over the systems life than you spend on it.

Do solar panels eliminate electric bills?

Solar panels can eliminate your electric bill. However, factors such as your home&#;s location and the typical electricity rates will influence whether or not your energy bill disappears with solar energy.

What is a payback period? 

A payback period refers to the amount of time it takes for the cost of an investment to break even. For a PV solar system, the energy production needs to match your energy usage. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) reports that the average payback period for a PV solar system is four to 10 years.

How many solar panels do I need for a 1,500-square-foot home?

EnergySage estimates you&#;ll need 12 or 13 panels on average to power a 1,500-square-foot home.

How long do solar panels last?

According to the Office of Energy Efficiency Renewable Energy (EERE), most solar panels last 30 to 35 years.

How We Chose the Top Solar Companies

We researched and analyzed dozens of solar panels and solar installation companies. We then formulated a rating system based on each solar installer or manufacturer&#;s services and products. We weighed several significant factors, including the quality and type of solar panels offered, the customer support network, warranty lengths and limitations, and additional benefits such as mobile apps for monitoring and customer service.

Speaking directly to representatives, we determined how each solar company personalizes its solar panel installation for each home. We also analyzed each company&#;s warranty options to ensure their product and performance guarantees match or exceed industry standards.

We evaluated each provider based on their rating and history with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to determine reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.

Updated: December 22,

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

To provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date cost figures, we gather information from a variety of pricing databases, licensed contractors, and industry experts.

Solar panels help your home use less energy, making them affordable to run. They capture energy from the sun&#;s rays and convert it to usable energy to run your household lights and appliances. You can use them to power a few things or go completely off-grid.

One of the most efficient solar panels is monocrystalline. These panels have cells made with single pieces of silicone. They come in a few types but can be thinner, lower, and more efficient than polycrystalline panels.

The national average cost range to install monocrystalline solar panels is $5,000 to $8,400, with most people spending around $6,500 for 10 installed PERC 350-watt monocrystalline solar panels on a roof. This project&#;s low cost is $3,500 to install 10 traditional 250-watt monocrystalline solar panels. The high cost is $9,600 for 10 installed bifacial 400-watt monocrystalline solar panels.

Monocrystalline Solar Panel Price

Cost to Install Monocrystalline Solar PanelsNational average cost$6,500Average range$5,000-$8,400Low-end$3,500High-end$9,600

Monocrystalline Panel Price per Watt

Monocrystalline is priced by the watt, with standard costs of between $0.60 and $1.20 per watt. Installed, this becomes a total cost of $1.10 to $2.40 per watt. Most solar cells are sold with watts between 250 and 400, with a few types available in smaller or larger sizes for specific uses, such as powering an RV or commercial building. Most people need between 3,000 and 5,000 kilowatts to power their home. People who are going off-grid typically need more than 7,000 kW. Below is the average cost per watt in varying sizes, from small single-use panels to the wattage required for most homes.

WattageAverage Cost (Installed)100 Watts$110 - $240150 Watts$165 - $360180 Watts$198 - $432200 Watts$220 - $480250 Watts$275 - $840300 Watts$330 - $720350 Watts$385 - $840400 Watts$440 - $960450 Watts$495 - $9901 kW$1,100 - $2,4003 kW$3,300 - $7,2005 kW$5,500 - $12,0007 kW$7,700 - $16,800

Get free estimates from trusted monocrystalline solar panel installation companies near me

Invalid zip code

Monocrystalline Panel Price by Type

Monocrystalline panels are made of cells formed from a single silicon crystal. This makes them different from other types that may use other materials or fragments of silicon crystals. Three basic monocrystalline panel types are used regularly - traditional, PERC, and bifacial. Traditional cells are also known as Mono-Si or mono-silicon crystal. PERC, passivated emitter and rear contact cells, are more efficient because they can produce more energy. Bifacial can produce energy from both sides, making them attractive for ground-mounted installations.

Most people use Mono-Si or PERC panels on their homes with a roof installation. All types can give you some of the best efficiencies on the market for energy production. Below are the costs of these types per panel uninstalled.

TypeAverage Costs per Panel (Materials Only)Mono-Si$150 - $240PERC Cells$300 - $500Bifacial$300 - $500

Mono-Si Panels

The cost of traditional Mono-Si panels is $150 to $240 per panel. These were the first monocrystalline panels and are still produced today. When looking for smaller panels for a single-use or an RV, this is the most common type. You can also find this option for some home installations, but they tend to be bigger, heavier, and less efficient. These cells are made from single silicon crystals. They waste a lot of silicon in their production, so they are not as sustainable or easy to produce as other panels.

PERC Cells

The cost of a solar panel with PERC cells ranges from $300 to $500 per panel. This is a type of monocrystalline panel with a special layer inside called a passivation layer. This layer prevents the panel&#;s back from heating. The sun&#;s rays bounce off this layer, so they end up encountering more of the energy-producing cells. This means they generate up to 5% more energy than traditional monocrystalline. This is a good investment if you need smaller panels or have limited space because you can use fewer cells to get the same power.

Bifacial Solar Panels

The cost of bifacial solar panels averages $300 to $500 per panel. This panel type has cells on both faces, meaning the panel could be mounted on a movable pole to collect more energy throughout the day. They are not designed for roofs because they need sunlight to catch both sides. They are more common for ground installations in larger settings. They require considerable space to operate, so most homeowners need an unused large and clear area.

Monocrystalline Solar Panel Efficiency

Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient. They have an average efficiency of roughly 20%, with a full efficiency range from 17% to 22%, depending on the type. PERC monocrystalline panels have the highest efficiency, but even standard Mono-Si panels are more efficient than thin film or polycrystalline. This is because the panels are made of cells using a single crystal. Electrons flow more easily through this single crystal, boosting efficiency.

Solar efficiency can also be impacted by other things. These include the angle the panels are installed at and how much sun you get in your area. Homeowners in sunny areas likely find their system more efficient than those with many trees or heavy shade. Some companies produce panels designed to work better in the shade, but these factors need to be considered when looking at the solar system&#;s efficiency.

Labor Costs to Install Monocrystalline Panels

Labor costs to install monocrystalline panels are no different from installing another type. They typically cost between $0.50 and $1.20 per watt to install. This means the average panel costs between $125 to $480 in labor. For a 10-panel installation, labor costs roughly $1,250 to $4,800. Installation costs vary by factors like the roof pitch, surface material, and panel angle.

Compare prices from monocrystalline solar panel installers near me

Invalid zip code

Monocrystalline Solar Panel Installation Cost by Brand

Many reputable brands make monocrystalline solar panels. Most solar-panel-producing companies produce one monocrystalline panel because it is so efficient. Some companies specialize in smaller panels for RVs and campers, with a few larger ones that can be used on homes. Others focus on providing high-efficiency panels for residential use only. Below are some of the popular brands and the cost to install 10 panels per brand. These costs include the panels, labor, and other necessary components.

BrandAverage Cost (Installed)Renogy$5,000 - $10,600LG$6,900 - $11,040Solaria$7,000 - $11,200S-Energy$8,025 - $12,840SunPower$8,250 - $13,200

Renogy Monocrystalline Solar Panel

The cost to install 10 Renogy monocrystalline solar panels averages $5,000 to $10,600. This includes inverters, labor, brackets, and other necessary components. Renogy primarily makes smaller panels designed for single-use projects. They also make a line that can be installed on RVs, campers, and camping equipment. They make some larger panels that can be used on homes, but these are more limited. Their residential options use PERC technology, making them efficient.

LG Monocrystalline Solar Panels

The cost of 10 LG monocrystalline solar panels installed ranges from $6,900 to $11,040. This includes all necessary components, including inverters and brackets. Costs vary depending on the roof pitch and how much sun you get. LG has several panel lines, including some designed to work in the shade. Their lines include traditional monocrystalline and PERC-style cells.

Solaria Monocrystalline Solar Panels

The cost of installing 10 Solaria monocrystalline solar panels is $7,000 to $11,200. This includes all components necessary, including inverters, brackets, panels, and labor. Solaria specializes in monocrystalline panels. They do not carry polycrystalline panels, which are blue. All monocrystalline panels are black. This makes them more energy-efficient, sleeker, and more aesthetically pleasing. Solaria has several lines, including some that are more efficient in the shade.

S-Energy Monocrystalline Solar Panels

The cost of installing 10 S-Energy monocrystalline solar panels ranges from $8,025 to $12,840. This includes the panels, installation, and other components. Costs vary depending on the location, roof pitch, and monocrystalline panel type. S-Energy has produced solar systems for more than 20 years with a solid efficiency and durability track record. They make a wide range of options, including many monocrystalline panels. They focus on producing panels that are highly efficient and long-lasting.

SunPower Monocrystalline Solar Panels

The cost of installing 10 SunPower monocrystalline solar panels averages $8,250 to $13,200. This includes all necessary components and labor. SunPower makes several monocrystalline panels, including flexible panels that are thinner. These can be installed in different places that traditional monocrystalline panels cannot. SunPower has high-efficiency ratings and different styles that can fit various installations.

Pros and Cons of Monocrystalline Panels

Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient solar panel currently being produced. They can give you more energy at fewer watts, meaning you often need fewer panels for the same amount of energy as other systems. They have a lower profile than polycrystalline panels with a sleek black finish, blending in with roofs. Monocrystalline cells come in different types, including some thin and flexible panels.

However, these are the most expensive solar systems. They use whole silicon crystals, making them difficult and costly to produce. They also produce a lot of waste in production. This waste product can produce polycrystalline cells, but it means these are less sustainable and renewable than other panels.

Monocrystalline panels last about 5 years longer than other types, making up the price difference.

Maintenance

Monocrystalline panels are easy to maintain. In most cases, they require no maintenance from you at all. You may need to clear debris, such as leaves or snow, to keep the surface clear. Dirty panels have reduced efficiency. When this happens, gently clean them with a soft cloth and water.

While the panels need no maintenance, have the system checked yearly by a solar company. This can ensure the system is working at optimum levels and prevent problems from developing.

Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells are made from silicon crystals. While monocrystalline cells are made from a single crystal, polycrystalline cells are made from multiple fragments that have been melted and poured together. Polycrystalline cells are often made of the leftover pieces produced when a monocrystalline cell is made.

Monocrystalline cells are more efficient and longer-lasting than polycrystalline. They have a sleek black color and lower profile, making them more attractive. However, they are not as sustainable and are difficult and time-consuming to make. For this reason, polycrystalline panels are usually cheaper.

Polycrystalline panels are larger with a blue color, making them more visible. However, they are more sustainable because they use leftover pieces from monocrystalline production.

Below is the average cost to install 10 panels of each type, including the panels and labor without other associated parts.

TypeAverage Cost (Installed)Polycrystalline$4,000 - $6,600Monocrystalline$5,000 - $8,400

Find the best monocrystalline solar panel installers near me

Invalid zip code

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Appearance. Monocrystalline panels are solid black with a lower profile than polycrystalline. This makes them appear more subtle, with the black color also enhancing energy gains.
• Permits. You may need a permit to install solar systems in some states. Speak to your contractor and municipality to find out more.
• Contractor. Research the company and contractor thoroughly. Depending on your state, they may need to be licensed in several areas, including as electricians and carpenters.
• Bids. Get a minimum of three bids before hiring a company. Make sure each company tells you the number of watts per panel, the cost per watt, and includes all parts of the installation, not just the panels. You should also get references from each.
• Accreditation. Ensure the contractor has accreditation from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). The NABCEP guarantees all members have adequate knowledge and experience for solar panel installation.
• Inverter. You have additional costs for your installation with the inverter. This converts the energy from the panel to energy you can use. This adds $425 to $3,000 to the final cost.

FAQs

• Which type of solar panel is best for home use?

You can use several solar panels for home use. Of these, monocrystalline panels are the most efficient and produce the most energy.

• Which is better, monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels?

Polycrystalline panels are less expensive and more sustainable. However, monocrystalline panels are more efficient, longer-lasting, and more subtle.

• Is monocrystalline more expensive than polycrystalline?

Yes, monocrystalline panels are typically more expensive than polycrystalline. A set of 10 panels installed is $4,000 to $6,600 for polycrystalline and $5,000 to $8,400 for monocrystalline.

• Can you mix polycrystalline with monocrystalline?

No, you should stay with one panel system type because this produces the most even and reliable results.

• How are monocrystalline solar cells made?

Monocrystalline solar cells are made of single silicon crystals. These crystals are grown specifically for this purpose.

• How much do monocrystalline solar panels cost?

The average cost is $5,000 to $8,400 to install 10 panels.

For more information, please visit Monocrystalline Solar Panel Manufacturer.