Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chesterfield, NJ (2024 Update)
- Chesterfield Solar Installation Cost: $11,389
- 25-Year Savings: $8,080
- Payback Period: 16.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chesterfield
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Chesterfield.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Chesterfield it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.6-kW system would cost about $11,389 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Chesterfield homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Chesterfield for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Chesterfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,330 |
| 3 years | $-8,212 |
| 5 years | $-6,093 |
| 7 years | $-3,975 |
| 9 years | $-1,857 |
| 11 years | $262 |
| 13 years | $2,380 |
| 15 years | $4,499 |
| 17 years | $6,617 |
| 19 years | $8,735 |
| 21 years | $10,854 |
| 23 years | $12,972 |
| 25 years | $15,091 |
Top Solar Installers in Chesterfield
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra energy and knowledge. That's why almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Since solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Chesterfield:
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 Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 Chesterfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chesterfield
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Chesterfield: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,530.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Chesterfield, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Chesterfield, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Chesterfield homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $6,733 | 17.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $9,372 | 17.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $12,210 | 16.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $15,244 | 16.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $18,477 | 16.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $21,907 | 15.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $25,535 | 15.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $29,361 | 15.1 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 select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you’d like to get plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Chesterfield, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chesterfield?
The average cost of solar panels in Chesterfield is about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Chesterfield have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.
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.