Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dartmouth, MA (2024 Update)
- Dartmouth Solar Installation Cost: $12,302
- 25-Year Savings: $17,123
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dartmouth
We go over average solar pricing in Dartmouth.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Dartmouth it’s 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Dartmouth, most homeowners require a 4.3-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $12,302, or $17,592 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Dartmouth homeowners see about $23,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dartmouth
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,640 |
| 3 years | $-7,315 |
| 5 years | $-3,990 |
| 7 years | $-665 |
| 9 years | $2,659 |
| 11 years | $5,984 |
| 13 years | $9,309 |
| 15 years | $12,634 |
| 17 years | $15,958 |
| 19 years | $19,283 |
| 21 years | $22,608 |
| 23 years | $25,933 |
| 25 years | $29,257 |
Top Solar Installers in Dartmouth
Many homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be a lot of work. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, using a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Dartmouth
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dartmouth
For many Dartmouth homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Dartmouth, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Dartmouth homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Dartmouth homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Dartmouth, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Dartmouth are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.22 | $17,734 | $18,349 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $24,919 | 12.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $31,718 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $38,743 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $45,996 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $53,477 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $61,184 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $69,119 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through carefully 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.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar panel system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
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 Dartmouth, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dartmouth?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Dartmouth?
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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Does Dartmouth have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system generates 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.
How long do solar panels last in Dartmouth?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.