Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clark, NJ (2023 Update)
- Clark Solar Installation Cost: $9,046
- 25-Year Savings: $8,804
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clark
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Clark.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Clark, the average cost of solar panels is 2.77 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.7-kW system would cost about $9,055 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Clark that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Clark
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,987 |
| 3 years | $-8,868 |
| 5 years | $-8,749 |
| 7 years | $-8,630 |
| 9 years | $-8,511 |
| 11 years | $-8,392 |
| 13 years | $-8,273 |
| 15 years | $-8,154 |
| 17 years | $-8,035 |
| 19 years | $-7,916 |
| 21 years | $-7,797 |
| 23 years | $-7,678 |
| 25 years | $-7,559 |
Top Solar Installers in Clark
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to use a solar installation company since putting up a solar system yourself can be a time-consuming project. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
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 Clark:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Clark
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clark
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Clark: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will greatly affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Furthermore, solar equipment goes beyond 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 for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Clark provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can impact how much you pay. Clark's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Clark have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $10,857 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $14,786 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $18,870 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $23,110 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $27,504 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $32,054 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $36,759 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $41,619 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Clark, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Clark?
The average cost of solar panels in Clark 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 things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Clark?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.