Solar Panel Cost Guide in Preston, CT (2023 Update)
- Preston Solar Installation Cost: $8,859
- 25-Year Savings: $21,129
- Payback Period: 7.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Preston
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Preston.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Preston generally cost about 2.8. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Preston, most homeowners require a 4.5-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $8,859, or $12,668 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Preston can save around $25,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Preston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,660 |
| 3 years | $-5,261 |
| 5 years | $-2,862 |
| 7 years | $-463 |
| 9 years | $1,936 |
| 11 years | $4,336 |
| 13 years | $6,735 |
| 15 years | $9,134 |
| 17 years | $11,533 |
| 19 years | $13,932 |
| 21 years | $16,331 |
| 23 years | $18,730 |
| 25 years | $21,129 |
Top Solar Installers in Preston
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installation company since installing a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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
See all of the solar companies in Preston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Preston
For many Preston homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Preston, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need 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 $2,800. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Preston, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Preston homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Preston is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $27,606 | 7.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $37,121 | 7.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $46,794 | 7.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $56,623 | 7.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $66,609 | 7.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $76,752 | 6.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $87,051 | 6.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $97,508 | 6.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Preston, CT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Preston?
The average cost of solar panels in Preston 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 things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Preston?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of 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 savings from going solar.
Does Preston have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.