Solar Panel Cost Guide in Southampton, MA (2024 Update)
- Southampton Solar Installation Cost: $12,815
- 25-Year Savings: $13,457
- Payback Period: 14.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Southampton
We go over average solar pricing in Southampton.
The average cost of solar panels in Southampton is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $12,815 before the 0 federal solar tax credit 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 making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Southampton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,843 |
| 3 years | $-9,898 |
| 5 years | $-7,953 |
| 7 years | $-6,008 |
| 9 years | $-4,064 |
| 11 years | $-2,119 |
| 13 years | $-174 |
| 15 years | $1,771 |
| 17 years | $3,716 |
| 19 years | $5,661 |
| 21 years | $7,605 |
| 23 years | $9,550 |
| 25 years | $11,495 |
Top Solar Installers in Southampton
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to go with a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Southampton, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a licensed solar installer can make going solar easier. 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
See all of the solar companies in Southampton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Southampton
For many Southampton homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Southampton, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Southampton, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $4,060 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Southampton, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Southampton homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Southampton, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points 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 bulk 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 promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $12,519 | 14.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $17,146 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $22,001 | 14.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $27,084 | 13.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $32,394 | 13.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $37,931 | 13.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $43,695 | 13.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $49,687 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
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
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
EcoWatch's Southampton, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Southampton?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Southampton?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or secure 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having 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.