Solar Panel Cost Guide in Metuchen, NJ (2024 Update)
- Metuchen Solar Installation Cost: $11,564
- 25-Year Savings: $8,776
- Payback Period: 16.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Metuchen
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Metuchen.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Metuchen generally cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 4.7-kW system would cost about $11,564 before the 0 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 may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Metuchen
| Year | Return 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 Metuchen
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra energy and expertise. That's one of the reasons almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Metuchen, optimizing your ROI.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Metuchen
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Metuchen
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 Metuchen: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,530.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Metuchen, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Metuchen homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Metuchen, and each can charge different amounts 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 additional services like electric vehicle 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 | $3.67 | $15,419 | $7,466 | 16.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $10,350 | 16.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $13,432 | 16.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $16,711 | 15.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $20,188 | 15.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $23,863 | 15.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $27,736 | 14.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $31,806 | 14.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Metuchen, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Metuchen, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Metuchen?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Metuchen?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Metuchen, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Metuchen?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.