Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sterling, MA (2023 Update)
- Sterling Solar Installation Cost: $9,215
- 25-Year Savings: $15,262
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sterling
We go over average solar pricing in Sterling.
In Sterling, solar panels cost about 2.94 per watt on average. Because a 4.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Sterling, the average price of going solar will be about $9,220 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Sterling homeowner. The cost 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. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Sterling
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,134 |
| 3 years | $-8,971 |
| 5 years | $-8,807 |
| 7 years | $-8,644 |
| 9 years | $-8,481 |
| 11 years | $-8,318 |
| 13 years | $-8,155 |
| 15 years | $-7,991 |
| 17 years | $-7,828 |
| 19 years | $-7,665 |
| 21 years | $-7,502 |
| 23 years | $-7,339 |
| 25 years | $-7,176 |
Top Solar Installers in Sterling
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra effort and handiness. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Local solar companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can benefit from and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you're looking for a solar company in Sterling, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Sterling
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sterling
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Sterling: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,940 per kilowatt in Sterling. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Sterling offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Sterling, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle 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 | $19,955 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.00 | $16,793 | $26,937 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $20,580 | $34,082 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.88 | $24,202 | $41,393 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.82 | $27,660 | $48,868 | 9.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.76 | $30,952 | $56,507 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.70 | $34,080 | $64,312 | 8.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.65 | $37,044 | $72,281 | 8.5 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 decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has 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: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the endurance of your solar panels, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
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 Sterling, MA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sterling?
The average cost of solar panels in Sterling is about $14,700 for a 5-kW system and $29,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sterling?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Does Sterling have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Sterling?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.