Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carlstadt, NJ (2024 Update)

  • Carlstadt Solar Installation Cost: $11,529
  • 25-Year Savings: $8,804
  • Payback Period: 16.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated June 24, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Carlstadt

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Carlstadt.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Carlstadt, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.7-kW system would cost about $11,529 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Carlstadt homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in your area for a customized quote.

Solar savings over time in Carlstadt

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-10,106
3 years$-7,262
5 years$-4,417
7 years$-1,572
9 years$1,273
11 years$4,117
13 years$6,962
15 years$9,807
17 years$12,652
19 years$15,496
21 years$18,341
23 years$21,186
25 years$24,031

Top Solar Installers in Carlstadt

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar installation company since installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for your family.

If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Carlstadt, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

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

Solar Veteran

Trinity Solar

★★★★★
4.0
  • Many financing options
  • Family-owned and -operated
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Limited service area
  • Relatively short workmanship warranty

See all of the solar companies in Carlstadt

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carlstadt

For many Carlstadt homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Carlstadt, 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 system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 about $3,530. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space 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. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Carlstadt to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The last key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Carlstadt, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Carlstadt know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.67$15,419$7,53716.8 years
8 kW$3.60$20,163$10,44416.5 years
10 kW$3.53$24,710$13,55016.1 years
12 kW$3.46$29,059$16,85315.8 years
14 kW$3.39$33,210$20,35315.5 years
16 kW$3.32$37,164$24,05115.2 years
18 kW$3.25$40,920$27,94714.9 years
20 kW$3.18$44,478$32,04114.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model 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 select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before deciding.

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

Solar Veteran

Trinity Solar

★★★★★
4.0
  • Many financing options
  • Family-owned and -operated
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Limited service area
  • Relatively short workmanship warranty

EcoWatch's Carlstadt, NJ Solar Cost FAQs

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

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Is it worth going solar in Carlstadt?

Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.