Solar Panel Cost Guide in Forestdale, MA (Mar 2023)
- Forestdale Solar Installation Cost: $8,479
- 25-Year Savings: $17,624
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Forestdale
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Forestdale.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Forestdale, the average cost of a solar system is 2.94 per watt. Because a 4.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Forestdale, the average price of going solar will be about $8,479 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Forestdale can save around $24,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Forestdale, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Forestdale
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,435 |
| 3 years | $-5,347 |
| 5 years | $-3,258 |
| 7 years | $-1,170 |
| 9 years | $918 |
| 11 years | $3,006 |
| 13 years | $5,095 |
| 15 years | $7,183 |
| 17 years | $9,271 |
| 19 years | $11,360 |
| 21 years | $13,448 |
| 23 years | $15,536 |
| 25 years | $17,624 |
Top Solar Installers in Forestdale
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and knowledge. That's why most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
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 in Forestdale:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Forestdale
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Forestdale
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Forestdale: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,940. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Forestdale, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Forestdale, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and 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 choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within 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 | $3.06 | $12,842 | $25,148 | 8.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $33,860 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $42,737 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $51,778 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $60,984 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $70,355 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $79,890 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $89,590 | 7.3 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 a few important things you should take into account, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Forestdale, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Forestdale?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Forestdale have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much 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 cover 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.