Cheap solar panels in Marshalltown

Rise of cheap solar panels

Upfront costs of solar panels make can drive some homeowners away. Not all panels cost a fortune though. Thanks to rapid advances in technology and manufacturing, the price of solar panels has plummeted over the past decade. This shift has opened the doors for budget-friendly options, making solar power more accessible than ever.

Let’s talk numbers: the average cost of solar panels in 2013 was around $4 per watt before installation. Today? That number has dipped below $1 per watt in many cases. See the trend for yourself.

Cost of solar panels over last decade

Solar module prices have reached record lows, with prices dipping to $0.096 per watt in 2024, the lowest level ever recorded, According to BloombergNEF (BNEF).

Alexey Kruglov, A1 SolarStore CEO

"Affordable solar panels are democratizing clean energy, enabling more households to join the green revolution without breaking the bank."

Not-so-sunny side of cheap solar panels

If you’re curious about how cheap solar panels compare to more expensive options, we have a great video worth checking out: Cheap vs. Expensive Solar Panels 

It explores critical differences, including performance, durability, and long-term value, giving you a clearer picture of what you’re gaining—or sacrificing—with budget options.

While cheap solar panels might seem like a no-brainer for anyone looking to save money, there are some trade-offs to consider.

1. Lower efficiency:

Budget panels often deliver an efficiency rate of around 16%, compared to high-end models pushing 23%. In plain terms, you might need more panels (and roof space) to generate the same amount of power.

2. Shorter lifespan:

Cheaper panels may degrade faster, typically lasting 20–25 years compared to the 30 years of premium counterparts. It’s the difference between buying a solid family sedan and a flashy sports car that purrs for decades.

3. Quality of materials:

Budget-friendly often means corners get cut. You might face more frequent maintenance or replacements due to less durable components.

When cheap panels make sense

• Budget constraints: If your wallet's feeling a bit tight but you’re eager to jump on the solar bandwagon, cheap panels are the obvious choice.
• Small energy needs: Got a cabin in the woods or a tiny home? You probably don’t need top-of-the-line panels for light use.
• Short-term installations: If you’re planning to move or use panels temporarily, why invest in something built to outlast your mortgage?

Sometimes, cheap solar panels can be found on sale or at discounted prices during seasonal promotions or clearance events. Keep an eye out for deals to snag a great bargain without compromising too much on quality. but you’re eager to jump on the solar bandwagon, cheap solar panels are a solid first step.

5 best cheap solar panels

To help you navigate your solar shopping spree, here’s a head-to-head comparison of some popular models:

Best brands with cheap solar panels

• Canadian Solar: A reliable choice for residential projects, blending efficiency with affordability.
• Hyundai: Slightly higher power and efficiency at a similar cost—a win for performance geeks.
• Trina Solar: Packs the most punch in power output, perfect for energy maximizers.
• Talesun: The budget hero with the lowest price per watt. Don’t expect miracles, but it gets the job done.
• ZnShine Solar: A Tier 1 manufacturer ZNShine Solar is one of the most popular brands at A1 SolarStore, affordable and efficient.

Future of affordable solar panels

The solar industry isn’t slowing down. Innovations like bifacial panels which generate energy on both sides, improved manufacturing techniques, and economies of scale are driving prices lower while boosting efficiency.

As panels get cheaper and better, we’re likely to see even more widespread adoption. Affordable solar options could be a game-changer for developing regions where access to electricity is limited.

By 2030, analysts predict that nearly half of new energy installations globally will involve solar. And with budget-friendly options making solar power accessible to everyone, we might just light up the world—one cheap panel at a time.

Final thoughts

Cheap solar panels aren’t perfect, but they’re a step in the right direction for many. Whether you’re on a budget or simply dipping your toes into the renewable energy waters, there’s a panel out there with your name on it. After all, the sun doesn’t discriminate—why should your wallet?