Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gardiner, NY (2023 Update)
- Gardiner Solar Installation Cost: $9,003
- 25-Year Savings: $12,577
- Payback Period: 10.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gardiner
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Gardiner.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Gardiner, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.95 per watt. The average Gardiner homeowner needs a 4.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $9,003 with the federal tax credit, or $12,874 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Gardiner homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Gardiner see about $19,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installer in Gardiner, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Gardiner
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,140 |
| 3 years | $-6,414 |
| 5 years | $-4,687 |
| 7 years | $-2,961 |
| 9 years | $-1,235 |
| 11 years | $492 |
| 13 years | $2,218 |
| 15 years | $3,945 |
| 17 years | $5,671 |
| 19 years | $7,398 |
| 21 years | $9,124 |
| 23 years | $10,850 |
| 25 years | $12,577 |
Top Solar Installers in Gardiner
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra energy and know-how. Because of that, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Local solar installers can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers 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
See all of the solar companies in Gardiner
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gardiner
Although the average cost of a solar system in Gardiner is $9,003, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,950. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only 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 many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Gardiner homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Gardiner, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $16,818 | 10.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $22,754 | 10.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $28,856 | 10.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $35,123 | 10.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $41,555 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $48,152 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $54,914 | 9.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $61,842 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind 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 pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you'd like to install plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies have different panels.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
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 Gardiner, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Gardiner?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Gardiner?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Gardiner?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger 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.