Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chittenango, NY (2023 Update)

  • Chittenango Solar Installation Cost: $9,540
  • 25-Year Savings: $6,667
  • Payback Period: 14.7 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chittenango

We break down average solar pricing in Chittenango.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Chittenango, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.95 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Chittenango, most homeowners require a 4.6-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,540, or $13,642 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Chittenango can save around $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Chittenango

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,892
3 years $-7,595
5 years $-6,299
7 years $-5,002
9 years $-3,706
11 years $-2,409
13 years $-1,113
15 years $184
17 years $1,480
19 years $2,777
21 years $4,074
23 years $5,370
25 years $6,667

Top Solar Installers in Chittenango

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar installation company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a challenging project. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.

If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Chittenango, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Chittenango

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chittenango

For many Chittenango homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Chittenango, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,950 per kilowatt in Chittenango. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Chittenango, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to factor 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 the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Chittenango, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Chittenango have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 $3.07 $12,886 $8,178 15.3 years
8 kW $3.01 $16,850 $11,235 15.0 years
10 kW $2.95 $20,650 $14,457 14.7 years
12 kW $2.89 $24,284 $17,843 14.4 years
14 kW $2.83 $27,754 $21,396 14.1 years
16 kW $2.77 $31,058 $25,113 13.8 years
18 kW $2.71 $34,196 $28,995 13.5 years
20 kW $2.66 $37,170 $33,043 13.2 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are many companies available in Chittenango, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Warranty: If you're worried about the endurance of your solar energy system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of options before making your decision.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you 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 National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Chittenango, NY Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Chittenango?

The average cost of solar panels in Chittenango 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 like the kind 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 Chittenango?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Chittenango?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.

How long do solar panels last in Chittenango?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.

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.

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