Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Collins, NY (2023 Update)

  • North Collins Solar Installation Cost: $9,458
  • 25-Year Savings: $6,146
  • Payback Period: 15.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 North Collins

We go over average solar pricing in North Collins.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in North Collins, the average cost of a solar system is 2.95 per watt. Since a 4.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in North Collins, the average price of going solar will be about $9,458 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a solid investment. The average homeowner in North Collins can save about $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in North Collins

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,834
3 years $-7,585
5 years $-6,337
7 years $-5,089
9 years $-3,840
11 years $-2,592
13 years $-1,344
15 years $-95
17 years $1,153
19 years $2,401
21 years $3,650
23 years $4,898
25 years $6,146

Top Solar Installers in North Collins

Many homeowners decide to use a solar panel company since installing solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Local solar installation companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can benefit from and by offering warranties and repairs.

You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:

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 North Collins

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Collins

While the average cost of a solar system in North Collins is $9,458, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,950. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the North Collins average.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in North Collins, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in North Collins, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. 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 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 $7,567 15.8 years
8 kW $3.01 $16,850 $10,419 15.4 years
10 kW $2.95 $20,650 $13,437 15.1 years
12 kW $2.89 $24,284 $16,620 14.8 years
14 kW $2.83 $27,754 $19,968 14.5 years
16 kW $2.77 $31,058 $23,482 14.2 years
18 kW $2.71 $34,196 $27,160 13.9 years
20 kW $2.66 $37,170 $31,004 13.6 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you'd like to get plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.

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 North Collins, NY Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in North Collins?

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places 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.

Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?

Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in North Collins is currently $156,304, which means you can expect a value of about $6,408 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in North Collins is a rewarding investment.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much 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 buy 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.

Follow us