Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Brunswick, NJ (2023 Update)
- North Brunswick Solar Installation Cost: $9,074
- 25-Year Savings: $8,776
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Brunswick
We go over average solar pricing in North Brunswick.
The average cost of a solar panel system in North Brunswick is 2.77 per watt. Because a 4.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in North Brunswick, the average price of going solar will be about $9,075 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of North Brunswick homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With typical savings of about $14,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in North Brunswick find investing in solar can pay off big.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in North Brunswick that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in North Brunswick
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,015 |
| 3 years | $-8,896 |
| 5 years | $-8,777 |
| 7 years | $-8,658 |
| 9 years | $-8,539 |
| 11 years | $-8,420 |
| 13 years | $-8,301 |
| 15 years | $-8,182 |
| 17 years | $-8,063 |
| 19 years | $-7,944 |
| 21 years | $-7,825 |
| 23 years | $-7,706 |
| 25 years | $-7,587 |
Top Solar Installers in North Brunswick
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar companies offer can be helpful as well, especially if you don't quite know what brand of solar equipment you need.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in North Brunswick
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Brunswick
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in North Brunswick: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in North Brunswick, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,770 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in North Brunswick offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar system can play a part in determining your pricing. North Brunswick's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $10,786 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $14,691 | 13.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $18,752 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $22,968 | 12.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $27,338 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $31,864 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $36,546 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $41,382 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's North Brunswick, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in North Brunswick?
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. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in North Brunswick?
Solar panels aren't free in North Brunswick, 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 you can take advantage of.
Does North Brunswick have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.