Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bethel, CT (2023 Update)
- Bethel Solar Installation Cost: $8,781
- 25-Year Savings: $18,239
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bethel
We break down average solar pricing in Bethel.
The average cost of solar panels in Bethel is 2.8 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Bethel is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $8,781 for a solar installation, or $12,557 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Bethel based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. With average savings of about $23,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Bethel find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bethel
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,700 |
| 3 years | $-5,538 |
| 5 years | $-3,377 |
| 7 years | $-1,215 |
| 9 years | $946 |
| 11 years | $3,108 |
| 13 years | $5,269 |
| 15 years | $7,431 |
| 17 years | $9,592 |
| 19 years | $11,754 |
| 21 years | $13,916 |
| 23 years | $16,077 |
| 25 years | $18,239 |
Top Solar Installers in Bethel
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar installation company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a challenging project. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Bethel
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bethel
For many Bethel homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Bethel, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,800. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Bethel have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Bethel, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.91 | $12,230 | $23,990 | 8.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $32,300 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $40,767 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $49,391 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $58,172 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $67,109 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $76,204 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $85,455 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you go with.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: When reading through your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Bethel, CT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bethel?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,000 for a 5-kW system and $28,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Bethel?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Bethel?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.