Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bethlehem, NC (Mar 2023)

  • Bethlehem Solar Installation Cost: $12,375
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,378
  • Payback Period: 9.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated March 14, 2023

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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 Bethlehem

See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Bethlehem.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Bethlehem is 2.54 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Bethlehem is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,375 for a solar installation, or $17,696 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Bethlehem homeowner. The price 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. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on power bills.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Bethlehem

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,065
3 years $-8,444
5 years $-5,824
7 years $-3,204
9 years $-584
11 years $2,037
13 years $4,657
15 years $7,277
17 years $9,897
19 years $12,518
21 years $15,138
23 years $17,758
25 years $20,378

Top Solar Installers in Bethlehem

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.

If you're searching for a solar installer in Bethlehem, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)

Outstanding Regional Installer

Renu Energy Solutions

★★★★★
4.5

  • Excellent reputation
  • Many financing options
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Bethlehem

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bethlehem

The cost of installing a solar system in Bethlehem can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Bethlehem, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,540 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Bethlehem, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installation company you pick will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $2.64 $11,095 $17,140 9.8 years
8 kW $2.59 $14,508 $23,138 9.6 years
10 kW $2.54 $17,780 $29,278 9.4 years
12 kW $2.49 $20,909 $35,561 9.3 years
14 kW $2.44 $23,896 $41,985 9.1 years
16 kW $2.39 $26,741 $48,552 8.9 years
18 kW $2.34 $29,444 $55,261 8.7 years
20 kW $2.29 $32,004 $62,113 8.5 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
  • Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.

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 Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)

Outstanding Regional Installer

Renu Energy Solutions

★★★★★
4.5

  • Excellent reputation
  • Many financing options
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Bethlehem, NC Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bethlehem?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,700 for a 5-kW system and $25,400 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 usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $941.17 per year.

How long do solar panels last in Bethlehem?

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 amount 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.

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