Solar Panel Cost Guide in Garden City South, NY (Aug 2022)
- Garden City South Solar Installation Cost: $8,405
- 25-Year Savings: $13,966
- Payback Period: 9.4 Years
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Updated 7/19/2022
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Garden City South
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Garden City South.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Garden City South generally cost around $3. The average Garden City South homeowner needs a 3.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $8,405, or $6,220 after the federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Garden City South depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $22,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Garden City South that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Garden City South
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,510 |
| 3 years | $-5,720 |
| 5 years | $-3,930 |
| 7 years | $-2,141 |
| 9 years | $-351 |
| 11 years | $1,439 |
| 13 years | $3,228 |
| 15 years | $5,018 |
| 17 years | $6,808 |
| 19 years | $8,597 |
| 21 years | $10,387 |
| 23 years | $12,177 |
| 25 years | $13,966 |
Top Solar Installers in Garden City South
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy consumption, but going with a solar installer can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Garden City South, we've 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
The Green Panel
- 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 Garden City South
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Garden City South
There are many factors that can influence your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment Size
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size. Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,950. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Garden City South, where sunlight is relatively 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Garden City South have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's important to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can impact the cost. Garden City South's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $13,622 | $21,256 | 9.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $17,813 | $28,691 | 9.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $21,830 | $36,300 | 9.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $25,672 | $44,084 | 9.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $29,340 | $52,043 | 9.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $32,832 | $60,176 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $36,150 | $68,484 | 8.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $39,294 | $76,967 | 8.4 years |
Solar Incentives in Garden City South
| Name | Residential Solar Tax Credit |
| Incentive Amount | 25% for solar-electric (PV) and solar-thermal systems; for third-party owned systems this is in reference to the aggregate amount owed under the contract rather than the amount owed in any single year |
| Incentive Max | $5,000 for solar-energy systems |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | ITC |
| Type | Tax Incentive |
| Incentive Amount | 26% of installation cost |
| Website | Visit here |
| Name | Local Option - Real Property Tax Exemption for Green Buildings |
| Incentive Amount | Upon local adoption, 20% - 100% of real property taxes owed; varies by year and certification level |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | NY-Sun PV Incentive Program (Residential, Low-Income, and Small Business) |
| Incentive Amount | Incentive rates step down over time as MW goals are met. Incentive rates as of 11/27/2019 are: Residential: Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed) Con Edison Region: $0.30/W Upstate Region: $0.35/W Low-to-Moderate income customers: $0.80/W (up to 10 kW) Small Commercial (Non-Residential):Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed) Con Edison Region: $0.60/W Up State Region: $0.45/W Multifamily Affordable Housing Adder: additional $0.40/W (up to 50 kW) |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Home Performance with ENERGY STAR |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | NY Green Bank |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Solar Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | Upon local authorization, 100% exemption from local sales tax |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Solar Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption from state sales tax |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Energy Conservation Improvements Property Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% of the value added to the residence by the improvements |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | NY-Sun Loan Program |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Solar, Wind & Biomass Energy Systems Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption for 15 years (unless local jurisdiction has opted out) |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose have 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 tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: If youcare about the endurance of your solar panel system, making sure your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
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
The Green Panel
- 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 Garden City South, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Garden City South?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Garden City South?
You can't get solar panels for free in Garden City South. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Garden City South?
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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt 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.
