Solar Panel Cost Guide in East Haddam, CT (2024 Update)

  • East Haddam Solar Installation Cost: $11,907
  • 25-Year Savings: $18,593
  • Payback Period: 10.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in East Haddam

See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in East Haddam.

The average cost of solar panels in East Haddam is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in East Haddam is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,907 for a solar installation, or $17,027 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.Even with the significant initial cost, the average East Haddam homeowner can save about $23,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.

For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in East Haddam

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-10,063
3 years $-6,375
5 years $-2,687
7 years $1,001
9 years $4,689
11 years $8,377
13 years $12,065
15 years $15,753
17 years $19,441
19 years $23,129
21 years $26,817
23 years $30,505
25 years $34,193

Top Solar Installers in East Haddam

Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra energy and know-how. That's why most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another perk of going with a solar installer is that they can help you make the most of your investment by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.

If you're searching for a solar company in East Haddam, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in East Haddam

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in East Haddam

Although the average cost of a solar system in East Haddam is $11,907, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,750.The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will significantly influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in East Haddam is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower 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 $3.90 $16,380 $19,974 11.3 years
8 kW $3.83 $21,420 $27,052 11.0 years
10 kW $3.75 $26,250 $34,340 10.8 years
12 kW $3.67 $30,870 $41,838 10.6 years
14 kW $3.60 $35,280 $49,546 10.4 years
16 kW $3.52 $39,480 $57,464 10.2 years
18 kW $3.45 $43,470 $65,592 10.0 years
20 kW $3.38 $47,250 $73,930 9.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies available in East Haddam, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's East Haddam, CT Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in East Haddam?

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,750 for a 5-kW system and $37,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in East Haddam?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to 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 East Haddam?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.

How long do solar panels last in East Haddam?

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 larger 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.

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