Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stafford, NJ (2023 Update)
- Stafford Solar Installation Cost: $8,609
- 25-Year Savings: $11,521
- Payback Period: 10.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stafford
Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in Stafford.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Stafford it's 2.77 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Stafford is around 4.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $8,609 for a solar installation, or $12,311 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Despite the large initial cost, the average Stafford homeowner can save about $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in Stafford for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Stafford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,804 |
| 3 years | $-6,194 |
| 5 years | $-4,583 |
| 7 years | $-2,973 |
| 9 years | $-1,362 |
| 11 years | $248 |
| 13 years | $1,858 |
| 15 years | $3,469 |
| 17 years | $5,079 |
| 19 years | $6,690 |
| 21 years | $8,300 |
| 23 years | $9,910 |
| 25 years | $11,521 |
Top Solar Installers in Stafford
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners opt to go with a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for you.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost 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 Stafford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stafford
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Stafford: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation require 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 $2,770. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Stafford, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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 a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Stafford, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 | $15,120 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $20,470 | 10.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $25,975 | 10.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $31,636 | 10.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $37,451 | 10.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $43,422 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $49,548 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $55,829 | 9.6 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 efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can verify your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the overall cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Stafford, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Stafford?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Stafford?
Solar panels aren't free in Stafford, 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 can further reduce the cost.
Is it worth going solar in Stafford?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had 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.