Solar panels in Louisiana
What a residential solar system actually costs in Louisiana in 2026 — plus incentives, payback, and how to pick a vetted installer.
The real cost of solar in Louisiana
A typical 11 kW rooftop system in Louisiana runs about $31,350 installed. The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit knocks 30% off — around $9,405 — bringing the net price to roughly $21,945.
Louisiana also exempts the added home value from property tax.
What you'll produce — and save
- ~15,739 kWh/year from a 11 kW system at 4.9 peak sun hours.
- At 12.6¢/kWh that's $1,983/yr off your electric bill in year one.
- Estimated payback: 11.1 years.
- 25-year net savings (2.5% annual rate escalation): $45,790.
Estimates only. Actual production depends on roof orientation, shade, equipment and your utility's specific tariff.
Net metering in Louisiana
Louisiana operates under a avoided cost policy for residential solar exports. Exports are credited at the utility's avoided cost — well below retail. Sizing conservatively and adding storage usually makes the most sense.
Top Louisiana metros we cover
FAQ
How much do solar panels cost in Louisiana?
A typical 11 kW residential system in Louisiana costs about $31,350 before incentives, or roughly $2.85 per watt installed. After the 30% federal tax credit that drops to about $21,945.
Is solar worth it in Louisiana?
With an average residential electricity rate of 12.6¢/kWh and 4.9 peak sun hours per day, a properly sized system typically pays for itself in about 11.1 years and saves roughly $45,790 over 25 years.
Does Louisiana have net metering?
Louisiana operates under a avoided cost policy for residential solar exports. Exact credit values vary by utility — always confirm with the specific utility serving your address.
What state incentives are available in Louisiana?
Louisiana does not currently offer a dedicated state solar tax credit. Property tax exemption: Yes. Sales tax exemption: No. The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit also applies.
Get vetted Louisiana installer quotes.
SolarPros only lists installers who pass our licensing, insurance and reputation checks. Free to request — no pressure.
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Sources: EIA average residential electricity rates, NREL PVWatts sun hour data, DSIRE state incentive database, LBNL "Tracking the Sun" installed-cost benchmarks. Figures are estimates for guidance only, not a binding quote.