Solar Panel Cost Guide in Porter, NY (Mar 2023)
- Porter Solar Installation Cost: $8,590
- 25-Year Savings: $7,617
- Payback Period: 13.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Porter
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Porter.
The average cost of solar panels in Porter is 2.95 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 4.2-kW system would cost about $8,590 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Porter homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Porter
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,942 |
| 3 years | $-6,646 |
| 5 years | $-5,349 |
| 7 years | $-4,052 |
| 9 years | $-2,756 |
| 11 years | $-1,459 |
| 13 years | $-163 |
| 15 years | $1,134 |
| 17 years | $2,430 |
| 19 years | $3,727 |
| 21 years | $5,023 |
| 23 years | $6,320 |
| 25 years | $7,617 |
Top Solar Installers in Porter
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Porter:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Porter
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Porter
For many Porter homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Porter, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,950 per kilowatt in Porter. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Porter, 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Porter, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. 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 more than the original 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 company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Porter, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Porter are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $10,493 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $14,321 | 13.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $18,314 | 13.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $22,472 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $26,796 | 12.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $31,285 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $35,939 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $40,758 | 11.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Porter, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you opt for.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Porter, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Porter?
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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Porter?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Porter have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.