Solar Panel Cost Guide in Guilford, CT (2023 Update)
- Guilford Solar Installation Cost: $8,879
- 25-Year Savings: $21,481
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Guilford
We go over average solar pricing in Guilford.
In Guilford, solar panels cost about 2.8 per watt on average. The average Guilford homeowner needs a 4.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $8,879 with the federal tax credit, or $12,697 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more. With average savings of about $25,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Guilford find going solar can be quite rewarding.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Guilford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,664 |
| 3 years | $-5,236 |
| 5 years | $-2,807 |
| 7 years | $-378 |
| 9 years | $2,051 |
| 11 years | $4,479 |
| 13 years | $6,908 |
| 15 years | $9,337 |
| 17 years | $11,766 |
| 19 years | $14,195 |
| 21 years | $16,623 |
| 23 years | $19,052 |
| 25 years | $21,481 |
Top Solar Installers in Guilford
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult task, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar companies offer can be valuable as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment you need.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Guilford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Guilford
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Guilford is $8,879, your actual cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,800 per kilowatt in Guilford. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Guilford, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $28,003 | 7.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $37,651 | 7.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $47,456 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $57,418 | 7.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $67,536 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $77,812 | 6.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $88,244 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $98,833 | 6.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Guilford, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Guilford, CT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Guilford?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Guilford?
Solar panels aren't free in Guilford, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Guilford, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.