Solar Panel Cost Guide in Westbrook, ME (Mar 2023)
- Westbrook Solar Installation Cost: $10,380
- 25-Year Savings: $12,255
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Westbrook
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Westbrook.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Westbrook, the average cost of solar panels is 2.83 per watt. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Westbrook, most homeowners require a 5.2-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $10,380, or $14,843 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Westbrook depending on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. Despite the large initial cost, the average Westbrook homeowner can save around $16,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Westbrook, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Westbrook
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,475 |
| 3 years | $-7,664 |
| 5 years | $-5,853 |
| 7 years | $-4,043 |
| 9 years | $-2,232 |
| 11 years | $-421 |
| 13 years | $1,390 |
| 15 years | $3,201 |
| 17 years | $5,011 |
| 19 years | $6,822 |
| 21 years | $8,633 |
| 23 years | $10,444 |
| 25 years | $12,255 |
Top Solar Installers in Westbrook
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a stressful project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 Westbrook
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Westbrook
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Westbrook: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar 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 about $2,830. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In general, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular choice because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Westbrook, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Westbrook know more 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 | $2.94 | $12,361 | $13,538 | 11.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.89 | $16,165 | $18,367 | 11.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.83 | $19,810 | $23,355 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.77 | $23,297 | $28,502 | 11.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.72 | $26,625 | $33,807 | 11.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.66 | $29,794 | $39,270 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.60 | $32,805 | $44,892 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.55 | $35,658 | $50,673 | 10.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 Westbrook, ME Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Westbrook?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,150 for a 5-kW system and $28,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
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 throughout Westbrook, 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires 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 household 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.