Solar Panel Cost Guide in Standish, ME (2024 Update)

  • Standish Solar Installation Cost: $13,948
  • 25-Year Savings: $12,247
  • Payback Period: 15.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Standish

See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Standish.

The average cost of a solar system in Standish is 4 per watt.Since a 5.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Standish, the average price of going solar will be about $13,948 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Standish see about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Standish for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Standish

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-12,810
3 years$-10,534
5 years$-8,257
7 years$-5,981
9 years$-3,704
11 years$-1,428
13 years$849
15 years$3,125
17 years$5,402
19 years$7,678
21 years$9,955
23 years$12,231
25 years$14,508

Top Solar Installers in Standish

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for you.

Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

See all of the solar companies in Standish

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Standish

Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that affect your total cost in Standish: 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 size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $3,800. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Standish, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Standish, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Standish is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.95$16,598$9,30116.0 years
8 kW$3.88$21,706$12,82715.7 years
10 kW$3.80$26,600$16,56515.4 years
12 kW$3.72$31,282$20,51715.1 years
14 kW$3.65$35,750$24,68114.8 years
16 kW$3.57$40,006$29,05814.5 years
18 kW$3.50$44,050$33,64814.2 years
20 kW$3.42$47,880$38,45113.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: If you’re concerned about the durability of your solar energy system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
  • Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's Standish, ME Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Standish?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $19,000 for a 5-kW system and $38,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Standish?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property 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 savings from going solar.

How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?

It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Standish, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt 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.