*Prices are shown after applying the 30% federal tax credit.
As of Sep 2024, the average cost of solar panels in Saint Louis is $2.58 per watt making a typical 6000 watt (6 kW) solar system $10,850 after claiming the 30% federal solar tax credit now available.
This is lower than the average price of residential solar power systems across the United States which is currently $3.00 per watt.
The size of a solar panel system also plays a role in how much the installation will cost.
Larger solar installations will typically have a lower cost per watt, because the panels can be purchased at a ‘bulk price’. However, these larger solar systems will still have a higher total cost, because they are made up of more individual panels.
System size* | Avg cost per watt |
Avg system cost
(After tax credit) show before tax |
---|---|---|
4kW | $2.83 | $7,914 |
5kW | $2.71 | $9,483 |
6kW | $2.58 | $10,850 |
7kW | $2.56 | $12,527 |
8kW | $2.59 | $14,495 |
9kW | $2.50 | $15,766 |
10kW | $2.48 | $17,329 |
Best unit price
$320.00 ($0.96 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,721.85
($2.53 p/w)
LG335N1K-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$562.50 ($1.50 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,120.18
($2.49 p/w)
LG375A1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$430.00 ($1.15 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,919.30
($2.65 p/w)
LG375Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$473.34 ($1.30 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$13,231.07
($2.59 p/w)
LG365Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
365 watts
Efficiency
21.1
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$432.00 ($1.20 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,276.66
($2.63 p/w)
LG360Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
20.8
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$530.85 ($1.50 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,386.87
($2.49 p/w)
LG355Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
355 watts
Efficiency
20.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$495.00 ($1.38 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,091.06
($2.60 p/w)
LG360Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
20.8
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$407.97 ($1.10 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.2kW system
$13,159.30
($2.54 p/w)
LG370Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
370 watts
Efficiency
21.4
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$323.39 ($0.97 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,691.01
($2.53 p/w)
LG335N1C-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$338.19 ($0.99 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$0.00
($0.00 p/w)
LG340N1C-V5 overview
Rated power
340 watts
Efficiency
19.8
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$600.00 ($1.83 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,808.41
($2.61 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-COM overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$800.00 ($2.22 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$13,201.67
($2.62 p/w)
SPR-X22-360 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
22.2
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$13,703.10
($2.79 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-D-AC overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$13,610.59
($2.77 p/w)
SPR-E20-327 overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$181.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$11,003.04
($2.16 p/w)
CS6K-300MS overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.33
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$196.11 ($0.65 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$9,948.02
($1.95 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-300M overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.1
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$172.00 ($0.56 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$9,568.53
($1.96 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-305M overview
Rated power
305 watts
Efficiency
18.4
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$165.00 ($0.53 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$9,761.72
($1.97 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-310M overview
Rated power
310 watts
Efficiency
18.7
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$228.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$9,579.65
($1.94 p/w)
LR4-60HPH-380M overview
Rated power
380 watts
Efficiency
20.9
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$234.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$10,126.74
($2.00 p/w)
LR6-72HBD-390M overview
Rated power
390 watts
Efficiency
19.4
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
4.74 659 Reviews
65081, over 1 month
We have been very satisfied with Shine Solar company. Totally recommend this company if you are looking for solar and HVAC. The installation was done professionally throughout both of our installments. Our salesman answered all our questions concerning both installments. He was very detailed in the process and when we had questions, he answered promptly. We never felt pressured into our purchase. HVAC team was prompt, professional and very patient with our questions. Our house stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter months. Solar team did an excellent job setting up our solar. We were kept informed through the entire process. The apps to see how much the solar is producing are wonderful. Looking for solar? HVAC? Look at Shine Solar!
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65081, over 1 month
We have been very satisfied with Shine Solar company. Totally recommend this company if you are looking for solar and HVAC. The installation was done professionally throughout both of our installments. Our salesman answered all our questions concerning both installments. He was very detailed in the process and when we had questions, he answered promptly. We never felt pressured into our purchase. HVAC team was prompt, professional and very patient with our questions. Our house stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter months. Solar team did an excellent job setting up our solar. We were kept informed through the entire process. The apps to see how much the solar is producing are wonderful. Looking for solar? HVAC? Look at Shine Solar!
4.69 35 Reviews
B. Powell, over 1 month
We had a residential solar system installed about 5 years ago including construction of a driveway overhang for panels. It operates fine and has had updates, checks for weather damage, and a panel cleaning. We are very satisfied with these results and the company, Shinnova. We recommend them to our neighbors and friends.
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B. Powell, over 1 month
We had a residential solar system installed about 5 years ago including construction of a driveway overhang for panels. It operates fine and has had updates, checks for weather damage, and a panel cleaning. We are very satisfied with these results and the company, Shinnova. We recommend them to our neighbors and friends.
4.56 55 Reviews
SCOTT FORD, over 1 month
EVERYONE THAT I HAD DELT WITH WAS SINCERE. I AM COMPLETLY SATISFIED WITH THE SERVICE. I WOULD RECOMEND THESE GUYS 100 %
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SCOTT FORD, over 1 month
EVERYONE THAT I HAD DELT WITH WAS SINCERE. I AM COMPLETLY SATISFIED WITH THE SERVICE. I WOULD RECOMEND THESE GUYS 100 %
4.53 123 Reviews
Kim Vaughn, 3 weeks ago
Everyone we have worked with during this entire process has been amazing!!! Professional, kind, accommodating.
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Kim Vaughn, 3 weeks ago
Everyone we have worked with during this entire process has been amazing!!! Professional, kind, accommodating.
4.53 22 Reviews
Mary, over 1 month
Bliss Brothers worked hard to make sure I got the best system possible for my energy needs. The salesman was very knowledgeable and helped us understand our system and what to expect moving forward. The install crew were polite and did quality work. I would highly recommend Bliss Brothers for your Solar needs!
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Mary, over 1 month
Bliss Brothers worked hard to make sure I got the best system possible for my energy needs. The salesman was very knowledgeable and helped us understand our system and what to expect moving forward. The install crew were polite and did quality work. I would highly recommend Bliss Brothers for your Solar needs!
4.51 30 Reviews
Daniel G, over 1 month
Joseph and the install team just finished installing our system. They did a fantastic job making sure the array and equipment looks great. They were very professional and answered all of my questions. The plans were for a single array that spans the entire roof and the team took extra time to make sure everything lined up and everything looks fantastic!! They even went the extra mile to clean up the property and make sure I was happy with the install. I would definitely use Astrawatt and their install team for any solar projects. Very highly recommended!! Sales: Working with Scott was awesome. He didn't pressure me into solar, he just provided the facts. He also answered all of my questions and worked with me to design the best system for our needs. Project Management: Bianca has done a great job in getting all our permits and scheduling our job. She also answered all of my many questions. The whole team is fantastic!
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Daniel G, over 1 month
Joseph and the install team just finished installing our system. They did a fantastic job making sure the array and equipment looks great. They were very professional and answered all of my questions. The plans were for a single array that spans the entire roof and the team took extra time to make sure everything lined up and everything looks fantastic!! They even went the extra mile to clean up the property and make sure I was happy with the install. I would definitely use Astrawatt and their install team for any solar projects. Very highly recommended!! Sales: Working with Scott was awesome. He didn't pressure me into solar, he just provided the facts. He also answered all of my questions and worked with me to design the best system for our needs. Project Management: Bianca has done a great job in getting all our permits and scheduling our job. She also answered all of my many questions. The whole team is fantastic!
4.46 9 Reviews
Brett H , over 1 month
After looking at solar for numerous months and doing research I found Fritts was hands down the easiest and most professional to deal with. I have been Installed now for over 9 months and still have a negative energy bill with APS. Thank you guys so much!
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Brett H , over 1 month
After looking at solar for numerous months and doing research I found Fritts was hands down the easiest and most professional to deal with. I have been Installed now for over 9 months and still have a negative energy bill with APS. Thank you guys so much!
4.32 6 Reviews
MediaDad, over 1 month
I had done much research and knew exactly what I wanted for my solar and battery system. The Solar Guys gave me a fair price without any pushy sales or pressure. They provided references, were recommended by my electrician, and were able to deliver the Enphase system I was looking for. The process was super simple, The Solar Guys handled all the detailed design, permitting and coordination with the city and power company. When the city required additional work, the Solar Guys took care of it and made sure their requirements were met. Their installation was neat and professional. They were easy to communicate with, answered questions knowledgeable, and helped me with some of my odd requests, getting me exactly what I had wanted. And after the sale service has been excellent. When I had a minor issue, they were quick to jump in, troubleshoot the problem and get it fixed.
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MediaDad, over 1 month
I had done much research and knew exactly what I wanted for my solar and battery system. The Solar Guys gave me a fair price without any pushy sales or pressure. They provided references, were recommended by my electrician, and were able to deliver the Enphase system I was looking for. The process was super simple, The Solar Guys handled all the detailed design, permitting and coordination with the city and power company. When the city required additional work, the Solar Guys took care of it and made sure their requirements were met. Their installation was neat and professional. They were easy to communicate with, answered questions knowledgeable, and helped me with some of my odd requests, getting me exactly what I had wanted. And after the sale service has been excellent. When I had a minor issue, they were quick to jump in, troubleshoot the problem and get it fixed.
4.17 4 Reviews
Body shop, over 1 month
I chose Solar Energy and had 2500kw system installed by them they are local and every dependable. I have had my system since 2013 and have had no problems what so ever. I have consulted with them several time with questions about my system and they always are very informant. I would highly recommend Solar Energy for you Solar needs.
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Body shop, over 1 month
I chose Solar Energy and had 2500kw system installed by them they are local and every dependable. I have had my system since 2013 and have had no problems what so ever. I have consulted with them several time with questions about my system and they always are very informant. I would highly recommend Solar Energy for you Solar needs.
Dan Vinson, over 1 month
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Where there is no specific pricing information available for a brand then we have used state pricing data for that brand.
Solar panel manufacturer | Avg. cost per watt |
---|---|
Canadian Solar | $2.41 |
LONGi Solar | $2.32 |
LG Solar | $2.87 |
Panasonic | $2.91 |
SunPower | $3.01 |
The most important difference between buying solar panels and any other purchase is that solar panels last 25-30 years. This is a long, long time and you will need customer service over all that time. The reviews below of the two largest corporate solar installation companies indicate larger corporate solar companies are not delivering this support to their customers.
We recommend you find a small or mid-size, local, family-owned solar company. These companies tend to care more about you and your specific job. You don't want to be on hold to a corporation's call center for the next 25 years!
The cost of solar doesn't just include the equipment and installation costs - it’s also made up of permitting costs, inspection costs, and installer profit margins.
These different components are what make the price of solar fluctuate between installations. Some of the factors that affect solar power system installation costs for specific homes include:
Homes that use more electricity will need more solar panels to cover their energy needs.
Although solar panels do get cheaper on a per-watt basis, the overall cost of the system will increase as more panels are added.
But, the higher a home’s energy usage, the more solar panels can save the homeowners on their energy bills.
The price of solar panels can vary depending on the type of solar panels you choose.
There are two main types of solar panels for residential solar installations: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline solar panels tend to be more efficient and more expensive than other solar panels. Polycrystalline panels have a lower efficiency rating and come at a lower price point.
The type of inverter you buy will also influence the cost of your solar system.
You may see some solar quotes with prices that seem too good to be true.
If you get quoted for a ridiculously cheap price, the installer might be using low-quality equipment or an unsustainable pricing model. You want to use a solar installer that is charging enough so that they can stay in business - as you’ll be relying on them for the next 25 years!
It’s important to make sure that your installer is giving you the best quality at the best price possible. This is why getting multiple solar quotes is so important.
The overall cost of solar can be influenced by the solar incentives available.
Across the U.S., homeowners can apply for the federal solar tax credit. The solar tax credit makes installing solar more cost-effective by providing homeowners with a tax credit equal to 30% of the cost of their installed solar panel system.
Local solar tax incentives and rebates can end up saving homeowners thousands on a solar installation, especially when they’re used with the federal solar tax credit.
See what solar incentives are available in your area by using our solar panel calculator.
The cost of installing residential solar panels in Saint Louis varies with the brand of solar panels and inverters you choose, the installation company you choose to install them, the relative ease or difficulty of installing solar panels on your home, and of course the amount of solar panels you need. The amount of solar panels you need is, in turn, related to your energy usage.
The table below shows the data extracted from a real life quote delivered through the SolarReviews marketplace recently for a fairly typical home in Saint Louis.
As you can see the payback period is relatively short and equates to a much better return on investment than he historical returns that have been available from investing in things like shares or property.
System information | Value |
---|---|
System Size (for 100% usage offset) | 11.87 kW |
Annual power generation | 16,101 kWh |
Pay-back time (assuming Cash purchase) | 9.2 Years |
Internal rate of return (IRR) on investment | 6.5% |
Gross cost | $31,211 |
Total Upfront Incentives and Rebates | -$9,116 |
Net Cost of System after rebated and incentives | $22,101 |
Total Cost of Utility Power Avoided over 25 years | $72,645 |