Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hartford, CT (Aug 2022)
- Hartford Solar Installation Cost: $9,718
- 25-Year Savings: $17,302
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated 7/19/2022
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hartford
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Hartford.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Hartford, the typical cost of solar panels is $3 per watt. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Hartford, most homeowners require a 4.7-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $9,718, or $7,191 after the federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Despite the large initial cost, the average Hartford homeowner can save about $22,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar company in Hartford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hartford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,637 |
| 3 years | $-6,475 |
| 5 years | $-4,314 |
| 7 years | $-2,152 |
| 9 years | $9 |
| 11 years | $2,171 |
| 13 years | $4,332 |
| 15 years | $6,494 |
| 17 years | $8,656 |
| 19 years | $10,817 |
| 21 years | $12,979 |
| 23 years | $15,140 |
| 25 years | $17,302 |
Top Solar Installers in Hartford
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar much easier. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your location and energy usage, but going with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
Working with a professional solar installer 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
Best Technology
The Green Panel
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Hartford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hartford
Although the average cost of solar panels in Hartford is $9,718, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment Size
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in Hartford, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,800 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Hartford have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only 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 consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Hartford is the company you get to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Hartford are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $12,929 | $21,605 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $16,908 | $29,138 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $20,720 | $36,837 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $24,367 | $44,702 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $27,848 | $52,732 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $31,163 | $60,928 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $34,312 | $69,290 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $37,296 | $77,818 | 8.1 years |
Solar Incentives in Hartford
| Name | Local Option - Residential Sustainable Energy Program |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | ITC |
| Type | Tax Incentive |
| Incentive Amount | 26% of installation cost |
| Website | Visit here |
| Name | Eversource - Small ZREC Tariff |
| Incentive Amount | $100.74 per REC (for Year 7 round of solicitation)Tariff for Small ZREC determined through PURA |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Energy Conservation Loan |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Connecticut Green Energy Building Solutions |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Solar and Geothermal Systems |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption for renewable energy property |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems |
| Incentive Amount | Local Option |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Residential Solar Investment Program |
| Incentive Amount | Customer-owned (EPBB): Up to 10 kW PTC: $0.358/W 10 to 20 kW PTC: $0.207/W Incentive is reduced accordingly for Design Factors below 75%. Minimum design factor is 60%. Third-Party-Owned (PBI): Up to 20 kW PTC: $0.03/kWh for 6 years Minimum Design Factor 60% |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
The Green Panel
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Hartford, CT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Hartford?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,000 for a 5-kW system and $28,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Hartford?
Solar panels aren't free in Hartford, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Is it worth going solar in Hartford?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Hartford?
On average, solar panels can last 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.
