Solar Panel Cost Guide in Suffield, CT (2023 Update)
- Suffield Solar Installation Cost: $9,201
- 25-Year Savings: $17,819
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Suffield
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Suffield.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Suffield generally cost around 2.8. Using this figure, a typical 4.7-kW system would cost about $9,192 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can go above or below the average in Suffield based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Suffield homeowners see about $22,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Suffield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,357 |
| 3 years | $-3,669 |
| 5 years | $19 |
| 7 years | $3,707 |
| 9 years | $7,395 |
| 11 years | $11,083 |
| 13 years | $14,771 |
| 15 years | $18,459 |
| 17 years | $22,147 |
| 19 years | $25,835 |
| 21 years | $29,523 |
| 23 years | $33,211 |
| 25 years | $36,899 |
Top Solar Installers in Suffield
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra energy and know-how. That's one of the reasons most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for your home.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Suffield, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Suffield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Suffield
The cost of installing a solar system in Suffield can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,800. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Suffield, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's a good idea to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Suffield is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to more resources and bulk 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 down 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 | $2.91 | $12,230 | $22,304 | 8.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $30,052 | 8.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $37,957 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $46,019 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $54,237 | 8.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $62,613 | 8.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $71,145 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $79,834 | 7.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
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 Suffield, CT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Suffield?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Suffield have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.