Solar Panel Cost Guide in Linden, NJ (Aug 2022)
- Linden Solar Installation Cost: $9,573
- 25-Year Savings: $8,278
- Payback Period: 13.4 Years
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Updated 7/19/2022
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Linden
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Linden.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Linden it's $3 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.7 would cost about $9,573 before the federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Linden homeowners see about $15,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Linden
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,859 |
| 3 years | $-7,431 |
| 5 years | $-6,002 |
| 7 years | $-4,574 |
| 9 years | $-3,146 |
| 11 years | $-1,718 |
| 13 years | $-290 |
| 15 years | $1,138 |
| 17 years | $2,566 |
| 19 years | $3,994 |
| 21 years | $5,422 |
| 23 years | $6,850 |
| 25 years | $8,278 |
Top Solar Installers in Linden
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra time and knowledge. Because of that, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Linden, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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
The Green Panel
- 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 Linden
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Linden
The cost of installing a solar system in Linden can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment Size
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $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, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Linden average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Linden homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Linden, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Linden have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $12,791 | $10,166 | 13.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $16,726 | $13,882 | 13.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $20,498 | $17,762 | 13.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $24,106 | $21,807 | 13.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $27,549 | $26,015 | 12.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $30,829 | $30,388 | 12.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $33,945 | $34,924 | 12.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $36,896 | $39,624 | 12.1 years |
Solar Incentives in Linden
| Name | NJ Clean Energy- Residential New Construction Program |
| Incentive Amount | Incentives depend on the HERS score and the classification Single family homes: Ranges from $1,125 to - 24,250 Multi-single homes: Ranges from $1,125 to $18,188 Multifamily homes: Ranges from $625-$12,125 |
| Incentive Max | Multifamily: up to $12,125 Individual homes: up to $24,250 |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems |
| Incentive Amount | 100% of value added by renewable system |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | ITC |
| Type | Tax Incentive |
| Incentive Amount | 26% of installation cost |
| Website | Visit here |
| Name | Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) Registration Program |
| Incentive Amount | Determined by the market. In June 2016, SREC traded at an average price of $229.90. |
| Incentive Max | Maximum price set by the SACP for the particular year. |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | PSE&G - Solar Loan Program |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program |
| Incentive Amount | Net-Metered Residential: $90/SREC-II Small Net-Metered Non-Residential located on Rooftop, Carport, Canopy and Floating Solar Projects smaller than 1 MW (dc): $100/SREC-II, $120 for public entities Projects 1 MW to 5 MW (dc): $90/SREC-II, $110 for public entities Net Metered Non-Residential Ground Mount Projects smaller than 1 MW (dc): $85/SREC-II, $105 for public entities Projects 1 MW to 5 MW (dc): $80/SREC-II, $100 for public entities Community Solar LMI: $90/SREC-II Community Solar Non-LMI: $70/SREC-II |
| Incentive Max | MW-DC Capacity Blocks Net Metered Residential: 150 MW Net Metered Non-Residential: 150 MW Community Solar (LMI and Non-LMI): 150 MW |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Solar Energy Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption |
| Incentive Max | None |
| More Info | Click here |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Linden, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
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
The Green Panel
- 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 Linden, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Linden?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Linden?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity 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?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.
