Solar Panel Cost Guide in Johnson City, NY (2023 Update)

  • Johnson City Solar Installation Cost: $9,583
  • 25-Year Savings: $4,529
  • Payback Period: 17.0 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Johnson City

Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Johnson City.

The average cost of solar panels in Johnson City is 2.95 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.6-kW system would cost about $9,582 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you may differ based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with. With typical savings of about $12,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Johnson City find going solar has a decent ROI.

You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Johnson City that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.

Solar savings over time in Johnson City

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-9,536
3 years $-9,442
5 years $-9,348
7 years $-9,254
9 years $-9,160
11 years $-9,066
13 years $-8,972
15 years $-8,878
17 years $-8,784
19 years $-8,690
21 years $-8,595
23 years $-8,501
25 years $-8,407

Top Solar Installers in Johnson City

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your family.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Johnson City

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Johnson City

Though the average cost of a solar system in Johnson City is $9,582, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Johnson City, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited 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

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you choose will affect your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Johnson City are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

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 $5,360 17.7 years
8 kW $3.01 $16,850 $7,477 17.3 years
10 kW $2.95 $20,650 $9,759 17.0 years
12 kW $2.89 $24,284 $12,207 16.6 years
14 kW $2.83 $27,754 $14,820 16.3 years
16 kW $2.77 $31,058 $17,597 16.0 years
18 kW $2.71 $34,196 $20,540 15.6 years
20 kW $2.66 $37,170 $23,649 15.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Johnson City, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Warranty: If you're concerned about the durability of your solar panel system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Johnson City, NY Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Johnson City?

The average cost of solar panels in Johnson City 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 certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?

Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $608.19 per year.

How long do solar panels last in Johnson City?

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.

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