Solar Panel Cost Guide in City of Orange, NJ (2024 Update)
- City of Orange Solar Installation Cost: $11,692
- 25-Year Savings: $8,676
- Payback Period: 16.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in City of Orange
See how much it might cost to go solar in City of Orange.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in City of Orange it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.7-kW system would cost about $11,692 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 true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in City of Orange
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,270 |
| 3 years | $-7,425 |
| 5 years | $-4,580 |
| 7 years | $-1,735 |
| 9 years | $1,109 |
| 11 years | $3,954 |
| 13 years | $6,799 |
| 15 years | $9,644 |
| 17 years | $12,488 |
| 19 years | $15,333 |
| 21 years | $18,178 |
| 23 years | $21,022 |
| 25 years | $23,867 |
Top Solar Installers in City of Orange
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar company as well, which can save you more money over time.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
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 City of Orange
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in City of Orange
The cost of installing a solar system in City of Orange can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in City of Orange, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,530 for each additional kilowatt you need.The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the City of Orange average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $7,216 | 17.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $10,017 | 16.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $13,015 | 16.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $16,211 | 16.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $19,605 | 15.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $23,196 | 15.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $26,985 | 15.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $30,972 | 14.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose greatly affects 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: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar energy system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you’d like to get plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
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 City of Orange, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in City of Orange?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $754.50 per year.
How long do solar panels last in City of Orange?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.