Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY (2024 Update)

  • Lake Ronkonkoma Solar Installation Cost: $9,930
  • 25-Year Savings: $28,204
  • Payback Period: 11.1 Years

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By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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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 Lake Ronkonkoma

Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Lake Ronkonkoma.

In Lake Ronkonkoma, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Lake Ronkonkoma, most homeowners require a 3.9-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,930, or $14,200 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Lake Ronkonkoma homeowner. The cost 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 investment in solar power is worth paying. On average Lake Ronkonkoma homeowners see about $22,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.

To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Lake Ronkonkoma, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Lake Ronkonkoma

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-8,405
3 years$-5,354
5 years$-2,303
7 years$747
9 years$3,798
11 years$6,849
13 years$9,899
15 years$12,950
17 years$16,001
19 years$19,051
21 years$22,102
23 years$25,153
25 years$28,204

Top Solar Installers in Lake Ronkonkoma

Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra energy and knowledge. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.

Working with a vetted solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

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 Lake Ronkonkoma

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lake Ronkonkoma

Though the average cost of a solar system in Lake Ronkonkoma is $9,930, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Lake Ronkonkoma, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,650 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

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 five to seven years on average.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Lake Ronkonkoma is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs.The company’s size sometimes plays the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.80$15,943$18,59211.5 years
8 kW$3.72$20,849$25,19811.3 years
10 kW$3.65$25,550$32,00911.1 years
12 kW$3.58$30,047$39,02410.9 years
14 kW$3.50$34,339$46,24310.7 years
16 kW$3.43$38,427$53,66710.4 years
18 kW$3.36$42,311$61,29510.2 years
20 kW$3.29$45,990$69,12810.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose significantly affects your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Contract: When reading over your solar installer’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.

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 Lake Ronkonkoma, NY Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lake Ronkonkoma?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?

Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Is switching to solar power worth it?

Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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.