Solar Panel Cost Guide in Keene, NH (2024 Update)
- Keene Solar Installation Cost: $14,758
- 25-Year Savings: $14,823
- Payback Period: 14.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Keene
We break down average solar pricing in Keene.
The average cost of solar panels in Keene is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 5.0-kW system would cost about $14,758 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Keene homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the significant initial cost, the average Keene homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Keene
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,352 |
| 3 years | $-10,538 |
| 5 years | $-7,724 |
| 7 years | $-4,911 |
| 9 years | $-2,097 |
| 11 years | $717 |
| 13 years | $3,530 |
| 15 years | $6,344 |
| 17 years | $9,158 |
| 19 years | $11,971 |
| 21 years | $14,785 |
| 23 years | $17,599 |
| 25 years | $20,412 |
Top Solar Installers in Keene
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Taking advantage of an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money over time.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Keene
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Keene
For many Keene homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Keene, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, 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 nearly $4,220. The 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 power bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Keene average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Keene have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of clean energy solutions in Keene, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.39 | $18,433 | $11,591 | 15.3 years |
| 8 kW | $4.30 | $24,105 | $15,927 | 15.1 years |
| 10 kW | $4.22 | $29,540 | $20,500 | 14.8 years |
| 12 kW | $4.14 | $34,739 | $25,309 | 14.5 years |
| 14 kW | $4.05 | $39,702 | $30,354 | 14.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.97 | $44,428 | $35,636 | 13.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.88 | $48,918 | $41,154 | 13.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.80 | $53,172 | $46,908 | 13.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Keene, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Keene, NH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Keene?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $21,100 for a 5-kW system and $42,200 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Keene?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Keene?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Keene?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can 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.