Solar Panel Cost Guide in Middletown, MD (2023 Update)
- Middletown Solar Installation Cost: $10,990
- 25-Year Savings: $5,364
- Payback Period: 16.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Middletown
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Middletown.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Middletown is 2.77 per watt. The average Middletown homeowner needs a 5.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $10,994 with the federal tax credit, or $15,721 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. Even with the high initial cost, the average Middletown homeowner can save about $11,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar company in Middletown, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Middletown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,737 |
| 3 years | $-7,232 |
| 5 years | $-4,727 |
| 7 years | $-2,222 |
| 9 years | $283 |
| 11 years | $2,789 |
| 13 years | $5,294 |
| 15 years | $7,799 |
| 17 years | $10,304 |
| 19 years | $12,809 |
| 21 years | $15,314 |
| 23 years | $17,819 |
| 25 years | $20,324 |
Top Solar Installers in Middletown
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Middletown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Middletown
The cost of installing a solar system in Middletown can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Middletown, 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 gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,770 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Middletown have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Middletown homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Middletown, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $5,213 | 17.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $7,261 | 17.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $9,464 | 16.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $11,822 | 16.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $14,335 | 16.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $17,004 | 15.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $19,827 | 15.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $22,806 | 15.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Middletown, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of options before deciding.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Middletown, MD Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Middletown?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost 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 Middletown have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually 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.