*Prices are shown after applying the 30% federal tax credit.
As of Apr 2024, the average cost of solar panels in Towson is $3.01 per watt making a typical 6000 watt (6 kW) solar system $12,628 after claiming the 30% federal solar tax credit now available.
This is higher 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 | $3.28 | $9,193 |
5kW | $3.14 | $11,007 |
6kW | $3.01 | $12,628 |
7kW | $2.98 | $14,587 |
8kW | $3.03 | $16,972 |
9kW | $2.92 | $18,381 |
10kW | $2.89 | $20,216 |
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
4.92 370 Reviews
JLF, 1 week ago
Lumina installed my solar system about three weeks ago, and it is already up and running. The experience from day 1 -- sales representative, schedulers, installers, etc. -- was excellent on all counts. Installation went according to schedule with no hiccups. I chose Lumina as the first among three firms that I investigated, and received bids. In addition to be the best value for the money in terms of the quality of panels, microinverters, installation hardware, critter guards., I found them to be the most honest regarding estimating real production given shading cover on the south side of my house. Another firm suggested that their proposed system would deliver 100% of capacity, which was not the case. Still another firm wanted me to cut down some trees (a non starter). Lumina also used the Aurora solar modeling software in which the Lumina representative worked with me (interactively) to develop the best design given the tree cover, roof angle, etc. We were able to test different designs in which we varied the number of panels, their placement, etc. There was no hard sell pressure, and the sales rep. explained with detail and clarity all issues related to warranties, risks, solar bonds, Maryland grants, and federal tax credits. The price paid was the price quoted. I should state that my goal was never 100% coverage of my electricity consumption. I will be happy with 70%. Finally, as the case with all solar companies Lumina runs a financial model estimating the number of years until payback of the investment (due to savings in one's electricity bill). While Lumina's model is sound, it does not account for the cost of money (discount rate). However, this is not a criticism. I know of no other company that uses a discount rate in their modeling.
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JLF, 1 week ago
Lumina installed my solar system about three weeks ago, and it is already up and running. The experience from day 1 -- sales representative, schedulers, installers, etc. -- was excellent on all counts. Installation went according to schedule with no hiccups. I chose Lumina as the first among three firms that I investigated, and received bids. In addition to be the best value for the money in terms of the quality of panels, microinverters, installation hardware, critter guards., I found them to be the most honest regarding estimating real production given shading cover on the south side of my house. Another firm suggested that their proposed system would deliver 100% of capacity, which was not the case. Still another firm wanted me to cut down some trees (a non starter). Lumina also used the Aurora solar modeling software in which the Lumina representative worked with me (interactively) to develop the best design given the tree cover, roof angle, etc. We were able to test different designs in which we varied the number of panels, their placement, etc. There was no hard sell pressure, and the sales rep. explained with detail and clarity all issues related to warranties, risks, solar bonds, Maryland grants, and federal tax credits. The price paid was the price quoted. I should state that my goal was never 100% coverage of my electricity consumption. I will be happy with 70%. Finally, as the case with all solar companies Lumina runs a financial model estimating the number of years until payback of the investment (due to savings in one's electricity bill). While Lumina's model is sound, it does not account for the cost of money (discount rate). However, this is not a criticism. I know of no other company that uses a discount rate in their modeling.
4.91 164 Reviews
Richard Novak, 3 weeks ago
Celestial Solar was terrific in all respects. Owner Jim Reilly visited our home and explained everything clearly. The staff measuring the roof, the crew installing the panels, and the members of the crew doing the needed electrical work, were all—like Jim --- professional, knowledgeable, easy to work with, trustworthy and courteous. Jim was also helpful with navigating the needed paperwork for warranties, the state rebate (for Maryland), the federal tax credit, and SRECS (solar renewable energy credits). We recommend Celestial without reservation.
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Richard Novak, 3 weeks ago
Celestial Solar was terrific in all respects. Owner Jim Reilly visited our home and explained everything clearly. The staff measuring the roof, the crew installing the panels, and the members of the crew doing the needed electrical work, were all—like Jim --- professional, knowledgeable, easy to work with, trustworthy and courteous. Jim was also helpful with navigating the needed paperwork for warranties, the state rebate (for Maryland), the federal tax credit, and SRECS (solar renewable energy credits). We recommend Celestial without reservation.
4.86 115 Reviews
Al, 2 weeks ago
The crew worked well together, efficient and very concerned with safety. They took time to answer all my questions with professionalism. I am pleased with the instillation. I just wish they could make it so that it is only cloudy at night.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$16,000 ($3.20 per watt)
Al, 2 weeks ago
The crew worked well together, efficient and very concerned with safety. They took time to answer all my questions with professionalism. I am pleased with the instillation. I just wish they could make it so that it is only cloudy at night.
4.83 538 Reviews
Chuck, 13 hours ago
I am pleased with the process. It was smooth from beginning to end. Andy kept me in the loop every step of the way. The contractors were professional, and finished ahead of schedule.
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Chuck, 13 hours ago
I am pleased with the process. It was smooth from beginning to end. Andy kept me in the loop every step of the way. The contractors were professional, and finished ahead of schedule.
4.81 190 Reviews
JV, 2 weeks ago
Extremely happy and satisfied by the solar installation and very happy that American Sentry Solar, did an amazing and professional job. So happy we went solar with them. Excellent job!!!
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JV, 2 weeks ago
Extremely happy and satisfied by the solar installation and very happy that American Sentry Solar, did an amazing and professional job. So happy we went solar with them. Excellent job!!!
4.78 87 Reviews
Ruben B, over 1 month
I have recently (finally) gone solar, after a long period (years, actually) of going back and forth doing research and trying to cut through the maddening cacophony of "expert" advise online. At the end of the day, serendipitously and fortunately, I went with Solar Energy Services: I can't recommend SES strongly enough. Erin was our project coordinator, she was amazing, but the entire team was truly outstanding, remarkably professional, educating me and guiding me throughout the process. I am sure most people (like me) can find this process a bit intimidating (so many details and options to consider; companies sound all alike; prices are all over the place) but having found SES was a turning point. I have read so many horror stories that I consider myself very lucky, it is obvious that SES cares about its reputation. Should any of you readers out there decide to go solar, I have no doubt Erin and her people will be happy to educate you and help you get there, just like they did for me. Ruben B.
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Ruben B, over 1 month
I have recently (finally) gone solar, after a long period (years, actually) of going back and forth doing research and trying to cut through the maddening cacophony of "expert" advise online. At the end of the day, serendipitously and fortunately, I went with Solar Energy Services: I can't recommend SES strongly enough. Erin was our project coordinator, she was amazing, but the entire team was truly outstanding, remarkably professional, educating me and guiding me throughout the process. I am sure most people (like me) can find this process a bit intimidating (so many details and options to consider; companies sound all alike; prices are all over the place) but having found SES was a turning point. I have read so many horror stories that I consider myself very lucky, it is obvious that SES cares about its reputation. Should any of you readers out there decide to go solar, I have no doubt Erin and her people will be happy to educate you and help you get there, just like they did for me. Ruben B.
4.77 70 Reviews
Dan, over 1 month
Rob, Jackie, and everyone at KW Solar were great. Knowledgeable, responsive, and friendly. We were up and running much sooner than I expected (and sooner than anyone else I know who’s gone thru the process). Delaware has a great program that covers 70% of the cost for median income families. Plus the federal incentive. So, it’ll pay for itself in about 5 years. The Enphase app monitors production and usage in real time, which is fun to watch. We’re producing at about the levels KW estimated. Overall - loved our experience. Thank you, KW Solar!
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Dan, over 1 month
Rob, Jackie, and everyone at KW Solar were great. Knowledgeable, responsive, and friendly. We were up and running much sooner than I expected (and sooner than anyone else I know who’s gone thru the process). Delaware has a great program that covers 70% of the cost for median income families. Plus the federal incentive. So, it’ll pay for itself in about 5 years. The Enphase app monitors production and usage in real time, which is fun to watch. We’re producing at about the levels KW estimated. Overall - loved our experience. Thank you, KW Solar!
4.76 83 Reviews
Rich Connor, over 1 month
Very professional and efficient installation. 12 panels on the garage, 14 more above the attic. All work completed in one day - started at 9 AM, completed by 4:15 PM. We couldn’t be happier with Green Street.
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Rich Connor, over 1 month
Very professional and efficient installation. 12 panels on the garage, 14 more above the attic. All work completed in one day - started at 9 AM, completed by 4:15 PM. We couldn’t be happier with Green Street.
4.73 583 Reviews
Klensi, 1 day ago
I’m happy with the service and everything going good till now
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Klensi, 1 day ago
I’m happy with the service and everything going good till now
4.66 48 Reviews
The Hess Family, 2 weeks ago
The process was very easy and quick. Almost everything was done via text or email. The workers that did the installation were superb! They were so friendly and did excellent, neat work. They made it a point to keep us informed of everything they did. We were extremely pleased.
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Average cost (5kW system)
$12,000 ($2.40 per watt)
The Hess Family, 2 weeks ago
The process was very easy and quick. Almost everything was done via text or email. The workers that did the installation were superb! They were so friendly and did excellent, neat work. They made it a point to keep us informed of everything they did. We were extremely pleased.
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 | $2.80 |
LG Solar | $3.34 |
SunPower | $3.51 |
Panasonic | $3.38 |
LONGi Solar | $2.70 |
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 Towson 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 Towson.
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) | 10.44 kW |
Annual power generation | 16,756 kWh |
Pay-back time (assuming Cash purchase) | 8.2 Years |
Internal rate of return (IRR) on investment | 8.8% |
Gross cost | $24,813 |
Total Upfront Incentives and Rebates | -$8,950 |
Net Cost of System after rebated and incentives | $15,858 |
Total Cost of Utility Power Avoided over 25 years | $63,855 |