Solar Panel Cost Guide in South Brunswick, NJ (2023 Update)
- South Brunswick Solar Installation Cost: $9,074
- 25-Year Savings: $8,359
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in South Brunswick
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in South Brunswick.
The average cost of solar panels in South Brunswick is 2.77 per watt. The average South Brunswick homeowner needs a 4.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,075 with the federal tax credit, or $12,977 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in South Brunswick
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,016 |
| 3 years | $-8,900 |
| 5 years | $-8,784 |
| 7 years | $-8,668 |
| 9 years | $-8,551 |
| 11 years | $-8,435 |
| 13 years | $-8,319 |
| 15 years | $-8,203 |
| 17 years | $-8,087 |
| 19 years | $-7,970 |
| 21 years | $-7,854 |
| 23 years | $-7,738 |
| 25 years | $-7,622 |
Top Solar Installers in South Brunswick
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in South Brunswick:
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 South Brunswick
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in South Brunswick
Though the average cost of a solar system in South Brunswick is $9,075, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The type 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. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the South Brunswick average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in South Brunswick offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $10,252 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $13,979 | 13.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $17,862 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $21,899 | 12.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $26,092 | 12.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $30,440 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $34,943 | 12.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $39,601 | 11.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in South Brunswick, 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:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 South Brunswick, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in South Brunswick?
The average cost of solar panels in South Brunswick is about $13,850 for a 5-kW system and $27,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in South Brunswick?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my energy bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $745.03 per year.
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 uses 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.