Solar Panel Cost Guide in Woodbridge, NJ (2023 Update)
- Woodbridge Solar Installation Cost: $9,075
- 25-Year Savings: $8,776
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Woodbridge
We go over average solar pricing in Woodbridge.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Woodbridge it's 2.77 per watt. Since a 4.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Woodbridge, the average price of going solar will be about $9,075 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Woodbridge depending on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Woodbridge can save around $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Woodbridge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,360 |
| 3 years | $-6,932 |
| 5 years | $-5,504 |
| 7 years | $-4,076 |
| 9 years | $-2,648 |
| 11 years | $-1,220 |
| 13 years | $208 |
| 15 years | $1,636 |
| 17 years | $3,064 |
| 19 years | $4,492 |
| 21 years | $5,920 |
| 23 years | $7,348 |
| 25 years | $8,776 |
Top Solar Installers in Woodbridge
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous task, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some 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 Woodbridge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Woodbridge
Cost is usually 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 Woodbridge: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,770 per kilowatt in Woodbridge. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive 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 greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you select will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to more 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 | $10,786 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.83 | $15,822 | $14,691 | 13.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.77 | $19,390 | $18,752 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.71 | $22,803 | $22,968 | 12.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.66 | $26,060 | $27,338 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.60 | $29,163 | $31,864 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.55 | $32,110 | $36,546 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.49 | $34,902 | $41,382 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have different panels.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers 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 Woodbridge, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Woodbridge?
The average cost of solar panels in Woodbridge 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 stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Woodbridge?
You can't get solar panels for free in Woodbridge. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires 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 home 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.