Solar Panel Cost Guide in Vernon, NJ (2023 Update)
- Vernon Solar Installation Cost: $9,327
- 25-Year Savings: $9,079
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Vernon
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Vernon.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Vernon it's 2.77 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Vernon 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.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Vernon homeowners. 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. Even with the high upfront cost, the average Vernon homeowner can save about $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Vernon, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Vernon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,590 |
| 3 years | $-7,118 |
| 5 years | $-5,645 |
| 7 years | $-4,173 |
| 9 years | $-2,701 |
| 11 years | $-1,228 |
| 13 years | $244 |
| 15 years | $1,717 |
| 17 years | $3,189 |
| 19 years | $4,662 |
| 21 years | $6,134 |
| 23 years | $7,606 |
| 25 years | $9,079 |
Top Solar Installers in Vernon
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 Vernon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Vernon
There are several criteria that can affect your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,770. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Vernon average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Vernon is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, you'll have many options for solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down 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 | $10,882 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $14,820 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $18,912 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $23,160 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $27,563 | 12.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $32,121 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $36,834 | 11.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $41,702 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
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 Vernon, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Vernon?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Vernon?
A solar panel system isn't free in Vernon, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, 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 making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Vernon?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.