Solar Panel Cost in Louisville, KY
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Louisville.
Estimated Solar Savings
Solar Panel System Costs in Louisville, KY
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Louisville, including the 30% federal solar tax credit.
| System Size | Cost Before Incentives | Federal Tax Credit (30%) | Net Cost | Est. Annual Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,200 | -$3,360 | $7,840 | 5,840 kWh |
| 6 kWMost Popular | $16,800 | -$5,040 | $11,760 | 8,760 kWh |
| 8 kW | $22,400 | -$6,720 | $15,680 | 11,680 kWh |
| 10 kW | $28,000 | -$8,400 | $19,600 | 14,600 kWh |
| 12 kW | $33,600 | -$10,080 | $23,520 | 17,520 kWh |
What Affects Solar Panel Cost in Louisville?
The average cost of solar panels in Louisville, KY is approximately $280/watt before incentives. For a typical 6kW residential system, that means a total cost of about $16,800 before the federal tax credit.
After applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), your net cost drops to approximately $11,760.Louisville homeowners typically see a payback period of 10 years and save an estimated $24,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Louisville:
- System size: Larger systems cost more but have a lower cost per watt
- Equipment quality: Premium panels and inverters cost more but offer better efficiency
- Roof complexity: Steep roofs, multiple levels, or shading can increase installation costs
- Local labor rates: Installation costs vary within the Louisville metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Louisville
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
Solar Incentives Available in Louisville
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
Kentucky homeowners can claim the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit to offset the cost of solar installation.
State & Local Incentives
Net Metering
Net MeteringKentucky net metering allows solar customers to receive credits for excess electricity generation at the retail rate.
Net Metering
Kentucky requires utilities to offer net metering for residential systems. However, recent policy discussions may change the compensation structure in coming years.
AvailableSRECs
Kentucky does not have an SREC market or renewable portfolio standard requiring solar energy.
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Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Louisville, KY
The average cost of solar panels in Louisville is approximately $2.80 per watt before incentives. A typical 6kW residential system costs about $16,800 before the 30% federal tax credit, bringing the net cost to around $11,760.
The typical payback period for solar panels in Louisville is approximately 10 years. After that, you'll enjoy free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of your system's life, saving an estimated $24,000 over 25 years.
Louisville homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, which reduces your system cost by 30%. Kentucky also offers net metering, and various state-level incentive programs. Check our incentives page for the complete list.
Louisville homeowners can save an estimated $24,000 over 25 years by going solar. Actual savings depend on your electricity usage, system size, roof orientation, and available incentives. With electricity rates averaging $0.11/kWh in Kentucky, solar provides significant long-term savings.
Solar Costs in Other Kentucky Cities
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