Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dunkirk, NY (2023 Update)
- Dunkirk Solar Installation Cost: $9,582
- 25-Year Savings: $6,625
- Payback Period: 14.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dunkirk
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Dunkirk.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Dunkirk generally cost around 2.95. The average Dunkirk homeowner needs a 4.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,582 with the federal tax credit, or $13,702 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Dunkirk based on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on 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 Dunkirk
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,933 |
| 3 years | $-7,637 |
| 5 years | $-6,340 |
| 7 years | $-5,044 |
| 9 years | $-3,747 |
| 11 years | $-2,451 |
| 13 years | $-1,154 |
| 15 years | $143 |
| 17 years | $1,439 |
| 19 years | $2,736 |
| 21 years | $4,032 |
| 23 years | $5,329 |
| 25 years | $6,625 |
Top Solar Installers in Dunkirk
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your family.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Dunkirk
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dunkirk
For many Dunkirk homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Dunkirk, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Dunkirk, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,950 for each additional kilowatt you need. The 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 energy bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Dunkirk average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Dunkirk 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
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Dunkirk is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $8,083 | 15.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $11,107 | 15.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $14,297 | 14.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $17,652 | 14.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $21,172 | 14.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $24,857 | 13.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $28,708 | 13.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $32,724 | 13.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Dunkirk, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which brand 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 ask for their list of options before deciding.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, 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
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 Dunkirk, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dunkirk?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Dunkirk?
A solar panel system isn't free in Dunkirk, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Dunkirk?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily 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.