LouisianaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Louisiana averages 4.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 11 years. Homeowners can save $27,800 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
4.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$17,700
before incentives
Payback Period
11 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$27,800
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Louisiana
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($2.95/W) | $17,700 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,310 |
| Net Cost | $12,390 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
12.52¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$141/mo
Solar Incentives in Louisiana
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Louisiana
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70001 | Metairie | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70112 | New Orleans | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70301 | Thibodaux | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70501 | Lafayette | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70601 | Lake Charles | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70801 | Baton Rouge | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 71301 | Alexandria | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70030 | Des Allemands | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 70461 | Slidell | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 71101 | Shreveport | 4.8 hrs | $1,082 | 11.5 yrs |
| 71001 | Minden | 4.7 hrs | $1,059 | 11.7 yrs |
| 71201 | Monroe | 4.7 hrs | $1,059 | 11.7 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Louisiana?
A typical 6kW solar system in Louisiana costs approximately $17,700 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,310), the net cost is approximately $12,390.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Louisiana?
The average solar payback period in Louisiana is 11 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Louisiana have net metering?
Louisiana has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Louisiana get for solar?
Louisiana averages 4.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.3 hours above the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 10,512 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA