Solar Panel Cost Guide in Orange, MA (2024 Update)
- Orange Solar Installation Cost: $12,864
- 25-Year Savings: $16,609
- Payback Period: 12.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Orange
We break down average solar pricing in Orange.
In Orange, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average Orange homeowner needs a 4.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,864 with the federal tax credit, or $18,396 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Orange 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.With average savings of about $22,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Orange find going solar has a decent ROI.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Orange, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Orange
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,141 |
| 3 years | $-7,694 |
| 5 years | $-4,247 |
| 7 years | $-800 |
| 9 years | $2,647 |
| 11 years | $6,093 |
| 13 years | $9,540 |
| 15 years | $12,987 |
| 17 years | $16,434 |
| 19 years | $19,881 |
| 21 years | $23,328 |
| 23 years | $26,775 |
| 25 years | $30,222 |
Top Solar Installers in Orange
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Orange
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Orange
There are many criteria that can affect your solar system 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 determines the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Orange average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Orange to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Orange, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $16,629 | 12.9 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $22,627 | 12.7 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $28,852 | 12.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $35,305 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $41,984 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $48,892 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $56,026 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $63,388 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Orange, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high 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.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the durability of your solar panel system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
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 Orange, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Orange?
The average cost of solar panels in Orange is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 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.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Orange have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
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 requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.