Solar Panel Cost Guide in Merrimack, NH (2023 Update)
- Merrimack Solar Installation Cost: $10,083
- 25-Year Savings: $14,917
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Merrimack
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Merrimack.
In Merrimack, solar panels cost about 2.91 per watt on average. Because a 5.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Merrimack, the average price of going solar will be about $10,083 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. Despite the high initial cost, the average Merrimack homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Merrimack
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,083 |
| 3 years | $-7,083 |
| 5 years | $-5,083 |
| 7 years | $-3,083 |
| 9 years | $-1,083 |
| 11 years | $917 |
| 13 years | $2,917 |
| 15 years | $4,917 |
| 17 years | $6,917 |
| 19 years | $8,917 |
| 21 years | $10,917 |
| 23 years | $12,917 |
| 25 years | $14,917 |
Top Solar Installers in Merrimack
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and handiness. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Merrimack, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a vetted 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 Merrimack
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Merrimack
Though the average cost of a solar system in Merrimack is $10,083, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Merrimack, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Merrimack homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. It's a good idea to include 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 final significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Merrimack, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.03 | $12,711 | $17,583 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.97 | $16,622 | $23,770 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.91 | $20,370 | $30,120 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.85 | $23,955 | $36,632 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.79 | $27,377 | $43,308 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.74 | $30,636 | $50,147 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.68 | $33,733 | $57,148 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.62 | $36,666 | $64,313 | 9.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer 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:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you go with.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar panels, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
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 Merrimack, NH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Merrimack?
The average cost of solar panels in Merrimack is about $14,550 for a 5-kW system and $29,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Merrimack?
You can't get solar panels for free in Merrimack. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Merrimack, 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 long do solar panels last in Merrimack?
Although 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 after having 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.