Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kirkland, NY (2023 Update)
- Kirkland Solar Installation Cost: $9,540
- 25-Year Savings: $6,139
- Payback Period: 15.2 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 Kirkland
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Kirkland.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Kirkland it's 2.95 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.6-kW system would cost about $9,540 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you may differ based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $13,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Kirkland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,913 |
| 3 years | $-7,659 |
| 5 years | $-6,404 |
| 7 years | $-5,150 |
| 9 years | $-3,896 |
| 11 years | $-2,641 |
| 13 years | $-1,387 |
| 15 years | $-133 |
| 17 years | $1,122 |
| 19 years | $2,376 |
| 21 years | $3,630 |
| 23 years | $4,885 |
| 25 years | $6,139 |
Top Solar Installers in Kirkland
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Kirkland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kirkland
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Kirkland: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will considerably affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Moreover, solar equipment goes beyond 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's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Kirkland, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of 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 securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $7,478 | 15.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $10,301 | 15.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $13,290 | 15.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $16,443 | 14.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $19,762 | 14.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $23,246 | 14.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $26,895 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $30,709 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Kirkland, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
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 Kirkland, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Kirkland?
The average cost of solar panels in Kirkland 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 things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Kirkland?
You can't get solar panels for free in Kirkland. 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 it worth going solar in Kirkland?
Solar panels can be a good investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.