Solar Panels Cost $14k-$23k in Lafayette, LA | April, 2025

Electricity Costs in Lafayette, LA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

Energy consumers in Lafayette pay an average of $127.99 per month for electricity, consuming 1,286 kWh on average. Please note that this figure also encompasses data from smaller residential units, including apartments.

For April 2025, the mean electricity rate in Lafayette, LA is 9.95¢ per kWh.

If you’re a typical electricity consumer in Lafayette, you may need a solar panel system sized at 10 kW or larger to account for all your electricity needs. The initial cost for a 10 kW solar panel system will be $33,700, but with a 30% tax credit, your cost is reduced to $23,590.

Are solar panels worth it in Louisiana?

If you expect living in your home longer than the solar system's payback period, adding solar panels is an smart decision in Lafayette. By installing a 5 kW solar system in Lafayette, LA, you can expect to save roughly $18,922.6 over 20 years, with the break even point generally being 8 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Lafayette, LA

The lack of solar panels or another energy backup means you'll forgo the earlier mentioned savings and be entirely reliant on your electric utility for power. The media has highlighted several cases where complete reliance on your utility isn't always the best scenario.

Lately, the average number of utility outages per customer in Lafayette has been 1.05 annually. The average duration of each outage is 146.97 minutes. During severe events like lightning strikes, wildlife damage, or overloaded power grids, these times can grow significantly longer.

Even without a backup battery, a solar panel system could relieve the strain of possible future power disruptions you may face.

What impacts the cost of solar panels in Lafayette, LA?

Your Energy Needs - Larger solar panel systems have a higher upfront cost, but the cost per watt declines as the system size increases. Individuals often find that installing a solar system that can fully cover their electric bill is very advantageous. This method ensures increased savings.

Make & Model - Just like many products, solar panels are available in a variety of makes and models. The potential system preferences of your chosen installer make it essential to choose a highly rated installer. Choosing superior quality materials can result in a much better long-term experience for the buyer.

Solar Panel Type - For good reasons, monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard. Although they are costlier, they generate increased energy. Most installers utilize panels made of this material.

Your Property - Each property and home has its own unique features. Trees, uneven land, or other challenges may add to the difficulty of the installation. Currently, satellite images allow the majority of solar installers to evaluate your home and include these considerations into the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Companies pay different wages to their employees, and these costs are eventually borne by the consumers. Higher reviews for services and customer service are generally associated with businesses that pay higher wages.

Permitting & Interconnection - The cost of installation will be affected by different local permitting and utility interconnection fees. That said, reputable local installers will be able to integrate these numbers into your preliminary quotes so there are no surprises.