Solar Panel Savings in New Orleans, LA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in New Orleans, Louisiana. Based on 4.9 peak sun hours/day and 10.1¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4.9
Peak Sun Hours/Day
10.1¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
13 yr
Payback Period
$10k
25-Year Savings
New Orleans Solar Overview
Calculate Your New Orleans Solar Savings
New Orleans average: $151/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$29,683
Monthly Savings
$72
Federal Tax Credit
$4,824
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | New Orleans | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,080 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,824 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,256 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.68/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in New Orleans
Sun Hours vs National Average
New Orleans gets 9% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 211 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 60.1°F — moderate climate with good solar conditions
- Average roof size: 1,899 sq ft — enough for a 105-panel system
New Orleans Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,080 system, that's a $4,824 credit. Valid through 2032.
Louisiana State Incentives
Louisiana solar tax credit expired; federal 30% ITC applies.
Net Metering — Entergy New Orleans
Entergy New Orleans offers net metering in New Orleans. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in New Orleans
3.6
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
59
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.8
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 8,585 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana receives an average of 4.9 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 10.1¢ per kWh from Entergy New Orleans, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in New Orleans produces approximately 8,585 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $869 annually. The system pays for itself in about 13.0 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 12+ years of the system's warranty life.
New Orleans has a solar penetration rate of 3.4% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 101 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Louisiana
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in New Orleans, LA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in New Orleans is approximately $16,080 before incentives ($2.68/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,256. Louisiana solar tax credit expired; federal 30% ITC applies.
How many peak sun hours does New Orleans get?
New Orleans, LA receives an average of 4.9 peak sun hours per day and approximately 211 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in New Orleans?
The average solar payback period in New Orleans is approximately 13 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $10,469.
Does New Orleans have net metering?
Yes, New Orleans has access to net metering through Entergy New Orleans. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in New Orleans, LA?
Yes, solar is a solid investment in New Orleans. While the 13-year payback is moderate, you'll still save $10,469 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.