Solar Panel Cost Guide in Berkeley Heights, NJ (2025 Update)
- Berkeley Heights Solar Installation Cost: $11,528
- 25-Year Savings: $7,971
- Payback Period: 16.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Berkeley Heights
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Berkeley Heights.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Berkeley Heights it’s 4 per watt.The average Berkeley Heights homeowner needs a 4.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,528 with the federal tax credit, or $16,485 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Berkeley Heights homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Berkeley Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,469 |
| 3 years | $-8,351 |
| 5 years | $-6,232 |
| 7 years | $-4,114 |
| 9 years | $-1,996 |
| 11 years | $123 |
| 13 years | $2,241 |
| 15 years | $4,360 |
| 17 years | $6,478 |
| 19 years | $8,596 |
| 21 years | $10,715 |
| 23 years | $12,833 |
| 25 years | $14,952 |
Top Solar Installers in Berkeley Heights
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. The payback period of solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t certain which solar panel installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Berkeley Heights:
See all of the solar companies in Berkeley Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Berkeley Heights
The cost of installing a solar system in Berkeley Heights can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant 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
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,530. The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will largely impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Moreover, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Berkeley Heights, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size sometimes plays the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount 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 | $3.67 | $15,419 | $6,466 | 17.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $9,016 | 17.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $11,764 | 16.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $14,710 | 16.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $17,854 | 16.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $21,195 | 15.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $24,734 | 15.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $28,471 | 15.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good 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.
EcoWatch's Berkeley Heights, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Berkeley Heights?
The average cost of solar panels in Berkeley Heights is about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Berkeley Heights?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How will having solar panels impact my property value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Berkeley Heights is currently $790,730, so you can expect a value of about $32,420 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Berkeley Heights is a worthwhile investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.