Solar Panel Cost Guide in Echelon, NJ (2023 Update)
- Echelon Solar Installation Cost: $9,032
- 25-Year Savings: $11,273
- Payback Period: 11.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Echelon
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Echelon.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Echelon, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.77 per watt. The average Echelon homeowner needs a 4.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,036 with the federal tax credit, or $12,921 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will look different based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $17,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Echelon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,534 |
| 3 years | $-4,538 |
| 5 years | $-1,541 |
| 7 years | $1,455 |
| 9 years | $4,451 |
| 11 years | $7,448 |
| 13 years | $10,444 |
| 15 years | $13,440 |
| 17 years | $16,437 |
| 19 years | $19,433 |
| 21 years | $22,430 |
| 23 years | $25,426 |
| 25 years | $28,422 |
Top Solar Installers in Echelon
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installer since handling can be a difficult project. The expertise that solar companies offer can be helpful as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment you need.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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
See all of the solar companies in Echelon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Echelon
Although the average cost of a solar system in Echelon is $9,036, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,770 per kilowatt in Echelon. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Echelon, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Echelon to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Echelon is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $14,055 | 11.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $19,050 | 11.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $24,200 | 11.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $29,505 | 10.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $34,966 | 10.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $40,581 | 10.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $46,352 | 10.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $52,278 | 10.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Echelon, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Echelon?
The average cost of solar panels in Echelon 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 such as the kind 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 Echelon?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates 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 should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily 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 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.