Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fords, NJ (2025 Update)

  • Fords Solar Installation Cost: $11,564
  • 25-Year Savings: $8,776
  • Payback Period: 16.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fords

We break down average solar pricing in Fords.

The average cost of a solar system in Fords is 4 per watt.Since a 4.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Fords, the average price of going solar will be about $11,564 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with.Even with the large initial cost, the average Fords homeowner can save around $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.

For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Fords

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-10,142
3 years$-7,297
5 years$-4,452
7 years$-1,608
9 years$1,237
11 years$4,082
13 years$6,927
15 years$9,771
17 years$12,616
19 years$15,461
21 years$18,306
23 years$21,150
25 years$23,995

Top Solar Installers in Fords

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar installer since handling can be a time-consuming project. Another upside of using a solar installer is that they can help you make the most of your ROI by reducing your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.

If you're searching for a solar company in Fords, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

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Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0
  • 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 Fords

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fords

The cost of installing a solar system in Fords can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $3,530. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Fords, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Fords homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Fords is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs.Additionally, some companies in Fords are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.67$15,419$7,46616.8 years
8 kW$3.60$20,163$10,35016.5 years
10 kW$3.53$24,710$13,43216.2 years
12 kW$3.46$29,059$16,71115.9 years
14 kW$3.39$33,210$20,18815.5 years
16 kW$3.32$37,164$23,86315.2 years
18 kW$3.25$40,920$27,73614.9 years
20 kW$3.18$44,478$31,80614.6 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar company you go with will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:

  • Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
  • 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.
  • Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs 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 sign of a quality company.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
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Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Fords, NJ Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fords?

The average cost of solar panels in Fords is about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Is going solar worth it?

Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.

How long do solar panels last in Fords?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.

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.