Solar Panel Cost Guide in Plainville, MA (2023 Update)
- Plainville Solar Installation Cost: $9,076
- 25-Year Savings: $15,444
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Plainville
We go over average solar pricing in Plainville.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Plainville, the average cost of solar panels is 2.94 per watt. The average Plainville homeowner needs a 4.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,076 with the federal tax credit, or $12,979 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Plainville homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Plainville can save about $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Plainville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,095 |
| 3 years | $-6,133 |
| 5 years | $-4,172 |
| 7 years | $-2,210 |
| 9 years | $-249 |
| 11 years | $1,713 |
| 13 years | $3,674 |
| 15 years | $5,636 |
| 17 years | $7,598 |
| 19 years | $9,559 |
| 21 years | $11,521 |
| 23 years | $13,482 |
| 25 years | $15,444 |
Top Solar Installers in Plainville
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra time and know-how. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
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 Plainville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Plainville
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Plainville: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost 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, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Plainville average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Plainville, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panels can influence your pricing. Plainville's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Plainville have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of 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 | $3.06 | $12,842 | $20,528 | 9.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $27,700 | 9.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $35,037 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $42,538 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $50,204 | 8.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $58,035 | 8.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $66,030 | 8.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $74,190 | 8.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
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 Plainville, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Plainville?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,112.34 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Plainville?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.