Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fort Drum, NY (2023 Update)
- Fort Drum Solar Installation Cost: $9,520
- 25-Year Savings: $6,687
- Payback Period: 14.7 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fort Drum
We break down average solar pricing in Fort Drum.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Fort Drum it's 2.95 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.6-kW system would cost about $9,520 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Fort Drum homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With typical savings of about $13,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Fort Drum find going solar can pay off big.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a personalized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Fort Drum
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,871 |
| 3 years | $-7,575 |
| 5 years | $-6,278 |
| 7 years | $-4,982 |
| 9 years | $-3,685 |
| 11 years | $-2,389 |
| 13 years | $-1,092 |
| 15 years | $205 |
| 17 years | $1,501 |
| 19 years | $2,798 |
| 21 years | $4,094 |
| 23 years | $5,391 |
| 25 years | $6,687 |
Top Solar Installers in Fort Drum
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra time and know-how. That's why most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Another great thing about choosing a reliable solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar investment.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Fort Drum
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fort Drum
For many Fort Drum homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Fort Drum, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Fort Drum, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,950 for each additional kilowatt you need. The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will largely influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Moreover, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Fort Drum offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Fort Drum is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $8,215 | 15.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $11,283 | 15.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $14,517 | 14.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $17,916 | 14.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $21,481 | 14.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $25,210 | 13.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $29,105 | 13.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $33,165 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose significantly affects 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: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
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 Fort Drum, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fort Drum?
The average cost of solar panels in Fort Drum 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 like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Fort Drum?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 once you've had 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.