Solar Panel Cost Guide in Big Flats, NY (2023 Update)
- Big Flats Solar Installation Cost: $9,520
- 25-Year Savings: $5,930
- Payback Period: 15.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Big Flats
See how much it might cost to go solar in Big Flats.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Big Flats it's 2.95 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Big Flats, most homeowners require a 4.6-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,520, or $13,614 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Big Flats depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Big Flats homeowners see about $13,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Big Flats
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,902 |
| 3 years | $-7,666 |
| 5 years | $-6,430 |
| 7 years | $-5,194 |
| 9 years | $-3,958 |
| 11 years | $-2,722 |
| 13 years | $-1,486 |
| 15 years | $-250 |
| 17 years | $986 |
| 19 years | $2,222 |
| 21 years | $3,458 |
| 23 years | $4,694 |
| 25 years | $5,930 |
Top Solar Installers in Big Flats
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra labor and know-how. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
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 in Big Flats:
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 Big Flats
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Big Flats
There are several criteria that can affect your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,950 per kilowatt in Big Flats. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Big Flats average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Big Flats to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to a higher cost over time due to interest. It's a good idea 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 how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Big Flats, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $7,226 | 16.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $9,966 | 15.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $12,870 | 15.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $15,940 | 15.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $19,175 | 14.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $22,575 | 14.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $26,140 | 14.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $29,870 | 13.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to get plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Big Flats, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Big Flats?
The average cost of solar panels in Big Flats 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 stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Big Flats, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes 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.
How long do solar panels last in Big Flats?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having 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.