Solar Panel Cost Guide in Beacon, NY (2023 Update)
- Beacon Solar Installation Cost: $8,983
- 25-Year Savings: $13,018
- Payback Period: 10.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Beacon
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Beacon.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Beacon typically cost around 2.95. The average Beacon homeowner needs a 4.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $8,983 with the federal tax credit, or $12,846 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Beacon depending on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Even with the high upfront cost, the average Beacon homeowner can save about $19,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
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 Beacon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,103 |
| 3 years | $-6,343 |
| 5 years | $-4,583 |
| 7 years | $-2,823 |
| 9 years | $-1,063 |
| 11 years | $697 |
| 13 years | $2,458 |
| 15 years | $4,218 |
| 17 years | $5,978 |
| 19 years | $7,738 |
| 21 years | $9,498 |
| 23 years | $11,258 |
| 25 years | $13,018 |
Top Solar Installers in Beacon
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and expertise. Because of that, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Beacon, we've 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 Beacon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Beacon
There are a number of criteria that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Beacon, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,950 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space 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. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Beacon provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Beacon homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Beacon is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of 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 | $3.07 | $12,886 | $17,451 | 10.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $23,599 | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $29,912 | 10.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $36,389 | 10.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $43,033 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $49,841 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $56,814 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $63,953 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
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 Beacon, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Beacon?
The average cost of solar panels in Beacon is about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real 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.
Are solar panels free in Beacon?
A solar panel system isn't free in Beacon, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Beacon, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for 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 typically 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.