Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dansville, NY (2023 Update)
- Dansville Solar Installation Cost: $9,623
- 25-Year Savings: $6,475
- Payback Period: 14.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dansville
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Dansville.
The average cost of a solar system in Dansville is 2.95 per watt. The average Dansville homeowner needs a 4.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,623 with the federal tax credit, or $13,761 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $13,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dansville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,979 |
| 3 years | $-7,691 |
| 5 years | $-6,403 |
| 7 years | $-5,116 |
| 9 years | $-3,828 |
| 11 years | $-2,540 |
| 13 years | $-1,252 |
| 15 years | $36 |
| 17 years | $1,324 |
| 19 years | $2,611 |
| 21 years | $3,899 |
| 23 years | $5,187 |
| 25 years | $6,475 |
Top Solar Installers in Dansville
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you're not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar company in Dansville, the EcoWatch team has 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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Dansville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dansville
Although the average cost of a solar system in Dansville is $9,623, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant 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 energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,950 per kilowatt in Dansville. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Dansville homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Dansville homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar system can affect your pricing. Dansville's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle 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 | $7,842 | 15.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $10,786 | 15.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $13,895 | 14.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $17,170 | 14.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $20,610 | 14.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $24,215 | 14.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $27,985 | 13.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $31,921 | 13.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Dansville, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dansville?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Dansville?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Does Dansville have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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 energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Dansville?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had 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.