Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hamden, CT (2024 Update)
- Hamden Solar Installation Cost: $11,885
- 25-Year Savings: $21,471
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hamden
Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Hamden.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Hamden, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $11,885 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you choose, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $25,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Hamden find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Hamden, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hamden
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,915 |
| 3 years | $-5,975 |
| 5 years | $-2,035 |
| 7 years | $1,904 |
| 9 years | $5,844 |
| 11 years | $9,784 |
| 13 years | $13,724 |
| 15 years | $17,663 |
| 17 years | $21,603 |
| 19 years | $25,543 |
| 21 years | $29,482 |
| 23 years | $33,422 |
| 25 years | $37,362 |
Top Solar Installers in Hamden
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a licensed solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 Hamden
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hamden
Although the average cost of a solar system in Hamden is $11,885, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Hamden, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,750 for each additional kilowatt you need.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Hamden average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid choice because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Hamden homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you choose will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $23,834 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.83 | $21,420 | $32,198 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.75 | $26,250 | $40,773 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,870 | $49,558 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.60 | $35,280 | $58,552 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,480 | $67,757 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.45 | $43,470 | $77,171 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,250 | $86,796 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- 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 big role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can research your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Hamden, CT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hamden?
The average cost of solar panels in Hamden is about $18,750 for a 5-kW system and $37,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Hamden?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Hamden, 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 you can take advantage of.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Hamden, 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 contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.