Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bethlehem, NY (2023 Update)
- Bethlehem Solar Installation Cost: $9,189
- 25-Year Savings: $8,598
- Payback Period: 12.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bethlehem
We go over average solar pricing in Bethlehem.
In Bethlehem, solar panels cost about 2.95 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Bethlehem is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,189 for a solar installation, or $13,140 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Bethlehem homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Bethlehem can save around $15,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Bethlehem, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bethlehem
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,478 |
| 3 years | $-7,055 |
| 5 years | $-5,632 |
| 7 years | $-4,209 |
| 9 years | $-2,786 |
| 11 years | $-1,363 |
| 13 years | $60 |
| 15 years | $1,483 |
| 17 years | $2,906 |
| 19 years | $4,329 |
| 21 years | $5,752 |
| 23 years | $7,175 |
| 25 years | $8,598 |
Top Solar Installers in Bethlehem
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installation company since installing a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. Another perk of going with a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your investment by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and informing you of local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company 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 Bethlehem
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bethlehem
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Bethlehem: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Bethlehem, 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 usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,950 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Bethlehem, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Bethlehem, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Bethlehem, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and choose a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $11,077 | 13.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $15,100 | 13.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $19,288 | 12.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $23,641 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $28,160 | 12.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $32,843 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $37,692 | 11.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $42,706 | 11.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be 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 component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Bethlehem, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bethlehem?
The average cost of solar panels in Bethlehem 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 certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Bethlehem?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly 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 maximize your savings.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.