Solar Panel Cost Guide in Charlton, MA (2023 Update)
- Charlton Solar Installation Cost: $9,215
- 25-Year Savings: $16,709
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Charlton
We go over average solar pricing in Charlton.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Charlton typically cost around 2.94. The average Charlton homeowner needs a 4.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,220 with the federal tax credit, or $13,185 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can go above or below the average in Charlton based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $22,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Charlton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,129 |
| 3 years | $-8,956 |
| 5 years | $-8,783 |
| 7 years | $-8,610 |
| 9 years | $-8,438 |
| 11 years | $-8,265 |
| 13 years | $-8,092 |
| 15 years | $-7,919 |
| 17 years | $-7,746 |
| 19 years | $-7,574 |
| 21 years | $-7,401 |
| 23 years | $-7,228 |
| 25 years | $-7,055 |
Top Solar Installers in Charlton
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Charlton, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Charlton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Charlton
Though the average cost of a solar system in Charlton is $9,220, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Charlton, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,940 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Charlton to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest. Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Charlton homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. 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 figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Charlton is the company you hire to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to access to greater 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 lower to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.06 | $12,842 | $21,895 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $29,523 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $37,315 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $45,272 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $53,393 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $61,680 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $70,130 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $78,746 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Charlton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want to get plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
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 Charlton, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Charlton?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Charlton?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property 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 financial benefits from going solar.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location 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 $1,157.90 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Charlton?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.