Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dover, NJ (2024 Update)
- Dover Solar Installation Cost: $11,808
- 25-Year Savings: $7,743
- Payback Period: 17.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dover
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Dover.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Dover, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average Dover homeowner needs a 4.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,808 with the federal tax credit, or $16,885 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Dover based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Dover homeowner can save about $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dover
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,749 |
| 3 years | $-8,630 |
| 5 years | $-6,512 |
| 7 years | $-4,394 |
| 9 years | $-2,275 |
| 11 years | $-157 |
| 13 years | $1,962 |
| 15 years | $4,080 |
| 17 years | $6,198 |
| 19 years | $8,317 |
| 21 years | $10,435 |
| 23 years | $12,554 |
| 25 years | $14,672 |
Top Solar Installers in Dover
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and handiness. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Dover
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dover
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Dover: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Dover, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,530 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular choice because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Dover homeowners, they can also raise 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 installer you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Dover, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $5,936 | 18.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $8,311 | 17.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $10,882 | 17.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $13,652 | 17.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $16,619 | 16.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $19,784 | 16.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $23,147 | 16.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $26,707 | 15.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company 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 the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
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 Dover, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dover?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Dover?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Dover, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Dover have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for 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 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 buy 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.