Solar Panel Cost Guide in Merrick, NY (2024 Update)
- Merrick Solar Installation Cost: $9,833
- 25-Year Savings: $12,737
- Payback Period: 11.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Merrick
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Merrick.
In Merrick, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 3.8-kW system would cost about $9,833 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will most likely vary based on your energy needs and what company you go with.With average savings of about $21,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Merrick find going solar can pay off big.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Merrick for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Merrick
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,930 |
| 3 years | $-7,124 |
| 5 years | $-5,319 |
| 7 years | $-3,513 |
| 9 years | $-1,708 |
| 11 years | $98 |
| 13 years | $1,903 |
| 15 years | $3,709 |
| 17 years | $5,514 |
| 19 years | $7,320 |
| 21 years | $9,125 |
| 23 years | $10,931 |
| 25 years | $12,737 |
Top Solar Installers in Merrick
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Merrick:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 Merrick
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Merrick
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Merrick: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it’s important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Merrick, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Merrick provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you select will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to more resources and bulk 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.80 | $15,943 | $17,745 | 11.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $24,069 | 11.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $30,598 | 11.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $37,330 | 11.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $44,267 | 10.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $51,409 | 10.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $58,755 | 10.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $66,305 | 10.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in Merrick, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: When looking 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.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- 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 installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Merrick, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Merrick?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 cost more 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 go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Merrick?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Merrick, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Merrick?
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 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.