Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dunellen, NJ (Mar 2023)
- Dunellen Solar Installation Cost: $9,075
- 25-Year Savings: $8,776
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dunellen
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Dunellen.
The average cost of a solar system in Dunellen is 2.77 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Dunellen is around 4.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,075 for a solar installation, or $12,977 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Dunellen can save around $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Dunellen, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dunellen
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,360 |
| 3 years | $-6,932 |
| 5 years | $-5,504 |
| 7 years | $-4,076 |
| 9 years | $-2,648 |
| 11 years | $-1,220 |
| 13 years | $208 |
| 15 years | $1,636 |
| 17 years | $3,064 |
| 19 years | $4,492 |
| 21 years | $5,920 |
| 23 years | $7,348 |
| 25 years | $8,776 |
Top Solar Installers in Dunellen
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels yourself can be challenging. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
Working with a licensed solar installer 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 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 Dunellen
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dunellen
For many Dunellen homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Dunellen, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Dunellen, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Dunellen offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Dunellen, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Dunellen 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 help you save 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 | $10,786 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $14,691 | 13.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $18,752 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $22,968 | 12.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $27,338 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $31,864 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $36,546 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $41,382 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Dunellen, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Dunellen, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dunellen?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Dunellen?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Dunellen?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.