Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ghent, NY (Feb 2023)
- Ghent Solar Installation Cost: $9,169
- 25-Year Savings: $6,914
- Payback Period: 14.3 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ghent
See how much it might cost to go solar in Ghent.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Ghent, the average cost of a solar system is $3 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Ghent is around 4.4 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,169 for a solar installation, or $6,785 after the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Ghent for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Ghent
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,525 |
| 3 years | $-7,239 |
| 5 years | $-5,952 |
| 7 years | $-4,665 |
| 9 years | $-3,379 |
| 11 years | $-2,092 |
| 13 years | $-806 |
| 15 years | $481 |
| 17 years | $1,768 |
| 19 years | $3,054 |
| 21 years | $4,341 |
| 23 years | $5,628 |
| 25 years | $6,914 |
Top Solar Installers in Ghent
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy usage, but working with a solar company can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Ghent:
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 Ghent
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ghent
The cost of installing a solar system in Ghent can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,950. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Ghent offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. 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 can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Ghent, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $8,848 | 14.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $12,128 | 14.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $15,573 | 14.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $19,183 | 14.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $22,958 | 13.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $26,899 | 13.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $31,004 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $35,275 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you go with.
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 Ghent, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ghent?
The average cost of solar panels in Ghent is about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Ghent?
You can't get solar panels for free in Ghent. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Ghent?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Ghent?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.