Solar Panel Cost Guide in Porter, NY (2023 Update)
- Porter Solar Installation Cost: $8,589
- 25-Year Savings: $7,618
- Payback Period: 13.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Porter
We break down average solar pricing in Porter.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Porter, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.95 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Porter is around 4.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $8,590 for a solar installation, or $12,284 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Porter homeowner. The cost 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, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Porter for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Porter
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,681 |
| 3 years | $-5,864 |
| 5 years | $-4,046 |
| 7 years | $-2,229 |
| 9 years | $-412 |
| 11 years | $1,405 |
| 13 years | $3,222 |
| 15 years | $5,039 |
| 17 years | $6,856 |
| 19 years | $8,674 |
| 21 years | $10,491 |
| 23 years | $12,308 |
| 25 years | $14,125 |
Top Solar Installers in Porter
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and expertise. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Porter
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Porter
There are many criteria that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Porter, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you pick will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies generally 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 | $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 solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Porter, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Porter?
This is a tough 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. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Porter?
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 energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount 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.