Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Scituate, MA (Mar 2023)
- North Scituate Solar Installation Cost: $8,520
- 25-Year Savings: $17,039
- Payback Period: 8.3 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Scituate
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in North Scituate.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in North Scituate typically cost about 2.94. The average solar panel system size in North Scituate is around 4.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $8,520 for a solar installation, or $12,184 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in North Scituate depending on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. Even with the large initial cost, the average North Scituate homeowner can save about $23,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in North Scituate that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in North Scituate
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,498 |
| 3 years | $-5,453 |
| 5 years | $-3,408 |
| 7 years | $-1,363 |
| 9 years | $681 |
| 11 years | $2,726 |
| 13 years | $4,771 |
| 15 years | $6,816 |
| 17 years | $8,860 |
| 19 years | $10,905 |
| 21 years | $12,950 |
| 23 years | $14,995 |
| 25 years | $17,039 |
Top Solar Installers in North Scituate
Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in North Scituate, thereby optimizing your ROI.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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
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 North Scituate
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Scituate
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in North Scituate: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
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, your total will most likely increase by around $2,940. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to get 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
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in North Scituate is the company you get to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $24,218 | 8.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $32,620 | 8.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $41,187 | 8.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $49,919 | 8.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $58,815 | 8.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $67,875 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $77,100 | 7.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $86,490 | 7.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly influences your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Long-running 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
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 North Scituate, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in North Scituate?
The average cost of solar panels in North Scituate is about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in North Scituate?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How will solar panels impact my home value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in North Scituate is currently $591,300, so you can look forward to a value of about $24,243 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in North Scituate is a worthwhile investment.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs 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 home 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.