Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Branford, CT (2023 Update)
- North Branford Solar Installation Cost: $8,874
- 25-Year Savings: $20,725
- Payback Period: 7.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Branford
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in North Branford.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in North Branford it's 2.8 per watt. The average North Branford 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.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will differ based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installation company in North Branford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Branford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,030 |
| 3 years | $-3,342 |
| 5 years | $346 |
| 7 years | $4,034 |
| 9 years | $7,722 |
| 11 years | $11,410 |
| 13 years | $15,098 |
| 15 years | $18,786 |
| 17 years | $22,474 |
| 19 years | $26,162 |
| 21 years | $29,850 |
| 23 years | $33,538 |
| 25 years | $37,226 |
Top Solar Installers in North Branford
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Companies can also have access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for your family.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 North Branford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Branford
The cost of installing a solar system in North Branford can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the North Branford average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in North Branford have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for North Branford homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in North Branford is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $26,995 | 7.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $36,307 | 7.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $45,776 | 7.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $55,402 | 7.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $65,184 | 7.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $75,123 | 7.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $85,220 | 6.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $95,472 | 6.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 North Branford, CT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Branford?
The average cost of solar panels in North Branford is about $14,000 for a 5-kW system and $28,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in North Branford?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,307.52 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.