Solar Panel Cost Guide in Seabrook, MD (2023 Update)
- Seabrook Solar Installation Cost: $10,577
- 25-Year Savings: $11,517
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Seabrook
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Seabrook.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Seabrook, the average cost of a solar system is 2.77 per watt. Because a 5.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Seabrook, the average price of going solar will be about $10,568 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Seabrook homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Seabrook homeowners see about $15,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Seabrook for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Seabrook
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,163 |
| 3 years | $-6,334 |
| 5 years | $-3,505 |
| 7 years | $-676 |
| 9 years | $2,152 |
| 11 years | $4,981 |
| 13 years | $7,810 |
| 15 years | $10,639 |
| 17 years | $13,467 |
| 19 years | $16,296 |
| 21 years | $19,125 |
| 23 years | $21,954 |
| 25 years | $24,782 |
Top Solar Installers in Seabrook
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since installing solar panels by yourself can be hard. Another upside of working with a solar installer is that they can help you optimize your ROI by reducing your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you're searching for a solar company in Seabrook, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Seabrook
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Seabrook
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Seabrook: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,770. 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 get 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 in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Seabrook average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Seabrook homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Seabrook have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $12,202 | 12.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $16,580 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $21,113 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $25,801 | 11.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $30,644 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $35,642 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $40,795 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $46,104 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before making your decision.
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 Seabrook, MD Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Seabrook?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.