Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sparta, NJ (2023 Update)
- Sparta Solar Installation Cost: $9,327
- 25-Year Savings: $8,140
- Payback Period: 13.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sparta
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Sparta.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sparta, the average cost of solar panels is 2.77 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Sparta is around 4.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,327 for a solar installation, or $13,338 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you may differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with. With average savings of about $14,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Sparta find going solar can be quite rewarding.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sparta
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,628 |
| 3 years | $-7,231 |
| 5 years | $-5,833 |
| 7 years | $-4,436 |
| 9 years | $-3,039 |
| 11 years | $-1,641 |
| 13 years | $-244 |
| 15 years | $1,153 |
| 17 years | $2,551 |
| 19 years | $3,948 |
| 21 years | $5,345 |
| 23 years | $6,743 |
| 25 years | $8,140 |
Top Solar Installers in Sparta
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Sparta, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Sparta
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sparta
There are several factors that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Sparta, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,770 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Sparta, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panels can influence the cost. Sparta's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Sparta know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $9,709 | 13.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $13,256 | 13.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $16,958 | 13.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $20,815 | 13.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $24,827 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $28,994 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $33,316 | 12.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $37,794 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will influence not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you'd like plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high 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.
- 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.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
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 Sparta, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sparta?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sparta?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing 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 option if you want to get the most savings.
Does Sparta have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.