Solar Panel Cost Guide in Caledonia, NY (2024 Update)
- Caledonia Solar Installation Cost: $11,906
- 25-Year Savings: $6,584
- Payback Period: 18.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Caledonia
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Caledonia.
The average cost of solar panels in Caledonia is 4 per watt.The average Caledonia homeowner needs a 4.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,906 with the federal tax credit, or $17,026 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can be above or below the average in Caledonia depending on a few factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Despite the large initial cost, the average Caledonia homeowner can save about $13,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in Caledonia for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Caledonia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,997 |
| 3 years | $-9,180 |
| 5 years | $-7,363 |
| 7 years | $-5,546 |
| 9 years | $-3,729 |
| 11 years | $-1,912 |
| 13 years | $-94 |
| 15 years | $1,723 |
| 17 years | $3,540 |
| 19 years | $5,357 |
| 21 years | $7,174 |
| 23 years | $8,991 |
| 25 years | $10,809 |
Top Solar Installers in Caledonia
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Some solar installers, especially local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Caledonia, optimizing your ROI.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Caledonia, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Caledonia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Caledonia
Though the average cost of a solar system in Caledonia is $11,906, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Caledonia, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Caledonia offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Caledonia is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs.Additionally, some companies in Caledonia have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.80 | $15,943 | $4,925 | 19.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $6,975 | 18.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $9,230 | 18.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $11,689 | 18.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $14,353 | 17.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $17,221 | 17.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $20,293 | 16.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $23,570 | 16.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose significantly impacts 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:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company 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.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Caledonia, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Caledonia?
The average cost of solar panels in Caledonia is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Caledonia?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically 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 way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Do solar panels increase the value of your home?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Caledonia is currently $248,562, so you can look forward to a value of about $10,191 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Caledonia is a rewarding investment.
How long do solar panels last in Caledonia?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.