Solar Panel Cost Guide in Linden, NJ (2024 Update)
- Linden Solar Installation Cost: $11,528
- 25-Year Savings: $8,804
- Payback Period: 16.1 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Linden
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Linden.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Linden, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Linden is around 4.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,528 for a solar installation, or $16,485 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Linden based on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar installation company in Linden, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Linden
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,106 |
| 3 years | $-7,261 |
| 5 years | $-4,417 |
| 7 years | $-1,572 |
| 9 years | $1,273 |
| 11 years | $4,118 |
| 13 years | $6,962 |
| 15 years | $9,807 |
| 17 years | $12,652 |
| 19 years | $15,497 |
| 21 years | $18,341 |
| 23 years | $21,186 |
| 25 years | $24,031 |
Top Solar Installers in Linden
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but going with a solar company can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
If you're searching for a solar company in Linden, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Linden
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Linden
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Linden: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important 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 energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,530 per kilowatt in Linden.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Linden average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Linden, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Linden homeowners, they can also add to 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 green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Linden, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of more resources and bulk 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 promotion can bring their pricing lower 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 | $7,537 | 16.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $10,445 | 16.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $13,550 | 16.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $16,854 | 15.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $20,354 | 15.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $24,053 | 15.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $27,949 | 14.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $32,043 | 14.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the overall cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Linden, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Linden?
The average cost of solar panels in Linden 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 stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Linden?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Linden have a net metering program?
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 offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.