Solar Panel Cost Guide in Willimantic, CT (2023 Update)
- Willimantic Solar Installation Cost: $9,153
- 25-Year Savings: $17,866
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Willimantic
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Willimantic.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Willimantic, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.8 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Willimantic, most homeowners require a 4.7-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,153, or $13,089 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Willimantic homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Willimantic can save about $22,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in Willimantic for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Willimantic
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,072 |
| 3 years | $-5,911 |
| 5 years | $-3,749 |
| 7 years | $-1,588 |
| 9 years | $574 |
| 11 years | $2,735 |
| 13 years | $4,897 |
| 15 years | $7,058 |
| 17 years | $9,220 |
| 19 years | $11,382 |
| 21 years | $13,543 |
| 23 years | $15,705 |
| 25 years | $17,866 |
Top Solar Installers in Willimantic
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can take advantage of and by offering warranties and repairs.
Working with a licensed solar company 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
See all of the solar companies in Willimantic
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Willimantic
There are many criteria that can influence your 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
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Willimantic, 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 a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Willimantic offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can affect how much it costs. Willimantic's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies 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 decide on the company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 | $22,450 | 8.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.86 | $15,994 | $30,247 | 8.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.80 | $19,600 | $38,201 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.74 | $23,050 | $46,311 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.69 | $26,342 | $54,579 | 8.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.63 | $29,478 | $63,003 | 8.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.58 | $32,458 | $71,584 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.52 | $35,280 | $80,322 | 7.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will affect 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 several important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- 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.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to get plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies have different panels.
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 Willimantic, CT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Willimantic?
The average cost of solar panels in Willimantic 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 stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Willimantic?
You can't get solar panels for free in Willimantic. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Willimantic, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.