Solar Panel Cost Guide in Riverside, NJ (2023 Update)
- Riverside Solar Installation Cost: $8,939
- 25-Year Savings: $8,912
- Payback Period: 12.5 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Riverside
We break down average solar pricing in Riverside.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Riverside it's 2.77 per watt. The average Riverside homeowner needs a 4.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $8,939 with the federal tax credit, or $12,783 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Riverside homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Riverside see about $15,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Riverside for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Riverside
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,225 |
| 3 years | $-6,797 |
| 5 years | $-5,369 |
| 7 years | $-3,941 |
| 9 years | $-2,513 |
| 11 years | $-1,085 |
| 13 years | $343 |
| 15 years | $1,772 |
| 17 years | $3,200 |
| 19 years | $4,628 |
| 21 years | $6,056 |
| 23 years | $7,484 |
| 25 years | $8,912 |
Top Solar Installers in Riverside
Many homeowners choose to hire a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be hard. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers 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 Riverside
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Riverside
The cost of installing a solar system in Riverside can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Riverside offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Riverside, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount 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 | $2.88 | $12,099 | $11,137 | 13.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $15,160 | 12.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $19,337 | 12.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $23,670 | 12.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $28,158 | 12.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $32,801 | 11.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $37,600 | 11.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $42,553 | 11.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid 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 have various brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
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 Riverside, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Riverside?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Riverside?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it often 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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Riverside?
Each state has some kind 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 utility bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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 get 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.