Solar Panel Cost Guide in Margate City, NJ (2024 Update)

  • Margate City Solar Installation Cost: $11,064
  • 25-Year Savings: $14,078
  • Payback Period: 12.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated April 21, 2024

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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 Margate City

See how much it might cost to go solar in Margate City.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Margate City it’s 4 per watt.The average Margate City homeowner needs a 4.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,064 with the federal tax credit, or $15,822 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Margate City 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.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on power bills.

Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a custom quote.

Solar savings over time in Margate City

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-9,566
3 years$-6,570
5 years$-3,574
7 years$-577
9 years$2,419
11 years$5,416
13 years$8,412
15 years$11,408
17 years$14,405
19 years$17,401
21 years$20,397
23 years$23,394
25 years$26,390

Top Solar Installers in Margate City

Many homeowners choose to use a solar installation company since trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Another advantage of working with a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your ROI by cutting back on future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.

Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • 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

★★★★★
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 Margate City

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Margate City

Though the average cost of a solar system in Margate City is $11,064, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,530.The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Margate City to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest.It’s a good idea to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Margate City, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Margate City have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.67$15,419$15,07912.6 years
8 kW$3.60$20,163$20,50112.4 years
10 kW$3.53$24,710$26,12112.2 years
12 kW$3.46$29,059$31,93811.9 years
14 kW$3.39$33,210$37,95311.7 years
16 kW$3.32$37,164$44,16511.4 years
18 kW$3.25$40,920$50,57511.2 years
20 kW$3.18$44,478$57,18310.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of companies to choose from in Margate City, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for 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 such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0
  • 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

★★★★★
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 Margate City, NJ Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Margate City?

This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Margate City?

Solar panels aren’t free in Margate City, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,016.61 per year.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can 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.