Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clinton, NJ (Mar 2023)
- Clinton Solar Installation Cost: $9,230
- 25-Year Savings: $6,954
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clinton
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Clinton.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Clinton generally cost about 2.77. The average solar panel system size in Clinton is around 4.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,230 for a solar installation, or $13,199 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Clinton homeowner can save about $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Clinton that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Clinton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,582 |
| 3 years | $-7,288 |
| 5 years | $-5,993 |
| 7 years | $-4,698 |
| 9 years | $-3,403 |
| 11 years | $-2,109 |
| 13 years | $-814 |
| 15 years | $481 |
| 17 years | $1,775 |
| 19 years | $3,070 |
| 21 years | $4,365 |
| 23 years | $5,659 |
| 25 years | $6,954 |
Top Solar Installers in Clinton
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Clinton, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Clinton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clinton
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Clinton: 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 size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $2,770. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. In addition, 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 Clinton offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Clinton homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. 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 company you go with to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Clinton, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and choose a company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $8,319 | 14.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $11,402 | 14.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $14,640 | 14.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $18,034 | 14.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $21,582 | 13.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $25,286 | 13.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $29,145 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $33,159 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips 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 project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in 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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Clinton, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clinton?
The average cost of solar panels in Clinton is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Clinton?
Solar panels aren't free in Clinton, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Clinton, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 cover 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.