Solar Panel Cost Guide in Plattsburgh, NY (2024 Update)
- Plattsburgh Solar Installation Cost: $11,879
- 25-Year Savings: $8,769
- Payback Period: 24.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Plattsburgh
We go over average solar pricing in Plattsburgh.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Plattsburgh generally cost about 4.The average Plattsburgh homeowner needs a 4.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,879 with the federal tax credit, or $16,987 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Plattsburgh homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With typical savings of about $10,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Plattsburgh find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installation company in Plattsburgh, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Plattsburgh
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,053 |
| 3 years | $-9,402 |
| 5 years | $-7,750 |
| 7 years | $-6,098 |
| 9 years | $-4,446 |
| 11 years | $-2,794 |
| 13 years | $-1,142 |
| 15 years | $509 |
| 17 years | $2,161 |
| 19 years | $3,813 |
| 21 years | $5,465 |
| 23 years | $7,117 |
| 25 years | $8,769 |
Top Solar Installers in Plattsburgh
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar installation company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your location and energy needs, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Plattsburgh
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Plattsburgh
For many Plattsburgh homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Plattsburgh, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Plattsburgh, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
Most solar companies in Plattsburgh provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.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 finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Plattsburgh, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $-36 | 25.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $360 | 24.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $962 | 24.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $1,767 | 23.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $2,777 | 23.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $3,991 | 22.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $5,410 | 22.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $7,033 | 21.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to install plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Plattsburgh, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Plattsburgh?
The average cost of solar panels in Plattsburgh is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for a majority of 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 pretty 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 get 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.