Solar Panel Cost Guide in Butler, NJ (2023 Update)

  • Butler Solar Installation Cost: $9,268
  • 25-Year Savings: $8,479
  • Payback Period: 13.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 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 Butler

Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Butler.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Butler generally cost about 2.77. Because a 4.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Butler, the average price of going solar will be about $9,268 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you want to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Butler homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Butler for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Butler

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,559
3 years $-7,139
5 years $-5,719
7 years $-4,299
9 years $-2,879
11 years $-1,460
13 years $-40
15 years $1,380
17 years $2,800
19 years $4,220
21 years $5,639
23 years $7,059
25 years $8,479

Top Solar Installers in Butler

When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to go with a solar installation company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.

You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:

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 Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Butler

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Butler

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Butler is $9,268, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need, 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 $2,770. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, 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

Most solar companies in Butler offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Butler, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of 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 larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $2.88 $12,099 $10,184 13.6 years
8 kW $2.83 $15,822 $13,889 13.3 years
10 kW $2.77 $19,390 $17,749 13.1 years
12 kW $2.71 $22,803 $21,765 12.8 years
14 kW $2.66 $26,060 $25,935 12.5 years
16 kW $2.60 $29,163 $30,260 12.3 years
18 kW $2.55 $32,110 $34,741 12.0 years
20 kW $2.49 $34,902 $39,377 11.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the project timeline.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts 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 Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Butler, NJ Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Butler is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Butler?

Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level 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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