Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stonington, CT (2024 Update)
- Stonington Solar Installation Cost: $11,856
- 25-Year Savings: $34,244
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stonington
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Stonington.
In Stonington, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $11,856 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs will most likely differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Even with the large initial cost, the average Stonington homeowner can save around $23,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Stonington
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,012 |
| 3 years | $-6,324 |
| 5 years | $-2,636 |
| 7 years | $1,052 |
| 9 years | $4,740 |
| 11 years | $8,428 |
| 13 years | $12,116 |
| 15 years | $15,804 |
| 17 years | $19,492 |
| 19 years | $23,180 |
| 21 years | $26,868 |
| 23 years | $30,556 |
| 25 years | $34,244 |
Top Solar Installers in Stonington
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and know-how. For that reason, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional 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 Stonington
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stonington
There are a number of factors that can play into your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Stonington, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,750 for each additional kilowatt you need.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Stonington average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Stonington homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining the cost. Stonington’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car 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 | $3.90 | $16,380 | $19,638 | 11.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.83 | $21,420 | $26,604 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.75 | $26,250 | $33,780 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,870 | $41,166 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.60 | $35,280 | $48,762 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,480 | $56,568 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.45 | $43,470 | $64,584 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,250 | $72,810 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely 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 what services you can expect from them.
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 Stonington, CT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Stonington?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,750 for a 5-kW system and $37,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Stonington?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Stonington, 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.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power 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 $1,200.60 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires 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.