Solar Panel Cost Guide in Emerson, NJ (2023 Update)
- Emerson Solar Installation Cost: $9,047
- 25-Year Savings: $8,958
- Payback Period: 12.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Emerson
We break down average solar pricing in Emerson.
In Emerson, solar panels cost about 2.77 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Emerson is around 4.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,055 for a solar installation, or $12,949 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Emerson homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Even with the large upfront cost, the average Emerson homeowner can save around $15,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Emerson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,624 |
| 3 years | $-4,779 |
| 5 years | $-1,935 |
| 7 years | $910 |
| 9 years | $3,755 |
| 11 years | $6,599 |
| 13 years | $9,444 |
| 15 years | $12,289 |
| 17 years | $15,134 |
| 19 years | $17,978 |
| 21 years | $20,823 |
| 23 years | $23,668 |
| 25 years | $26,513 |
Top Solar Installers in Emerson
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
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
See all of the solar companies in Emerson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Emerson
For many Emerson homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Emerson, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,770. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Emerson average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Emerson, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $11,055 | 13.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $15,050 | 12.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $19,200 | 12.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $23,506 | 12.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $27,967 | 12.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $32,582 | 11.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $37,353 | 11.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $42,279 | 11.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you'd like to install plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the overall cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
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 Emerson, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Emerson?
The average cost of solar panels in Emerson 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Emerson?
You can't get solar panels for free in Emerson. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Emerson?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
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 get 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.