Solar Panel Cost Guide in Queens, NY (May 2022)
- Queens Solar Installation Cost: $8,361
- 25-Year Savings: $23,697
- Payback Period: 6.5 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Updated 4/26/2022
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Queens
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Queens.
In Queens, solar panels cost about $3 per watt on average. Since a 3.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Queens, the average price of going solar will be about $8,361 before claiming the federal solar tax credit.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $32,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Queens
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,079 |
| 3 years | $-4,514 |
| 5 years | $-1,949 |
| 7 years | $615 |
| 9 years | $3,180 |
| 11 years | $5,745 |
| 13 years | $8,309 |
| 15 years | $10,874 |
| 17 years | $13,438 |
| 19 years | $16,003 |
| 21 years | $18,568 |
| 23 years | $21,132 |
| 25 years | $23,697 |
Top Solar Installers in Queens
When going solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installer since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a challenging project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Queens, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
4.5
- 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 Queens
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Queens
Although the average cost of solar panels in Queens is $8,361, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment Size
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size. Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,950. 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 come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Queens have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car 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 | $13,622 | $36,540 | 6.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $17,813 | $49,070 | 6.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $21,830 | $61,774 | 6.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $25,672 | $74,652 | 6.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $29,340 | $87,706 | 6.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $32,832 | $100,934 | 6.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $36,150 | $114,336 | 6.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $39,294 | $127,914 | 5.9 years |
Solar Incentives in Queens
| Name | Residential Solar Tax Credit |
| Incentive Amount | 25% for solar-electric (PV) and solar-thermal systems; for third-party owned systems this is in reference to the aggregate amount owed under the contract rather than the amount owed in any single year |
| Incentive Max | $5,000 for solar-energy systems |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | ITC |
| Type | Tax Incentive |
| Incentive Amount | 26% of installation cost |
| Website | Visit here |
| Name | New York City - Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) and Energy Storage equipment |
| Incentive Amount | Installed from August 5, 2008 to December 31, 2010: 8.75% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 35%); Installed from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012: 5% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 20%); Installed from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013: 2.5% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 10%) Installed from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016: 5% of the system expenditures per year for 4 years Installed from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2018: 5% of the system expenditures per year for 4 years |
| Incentive Max | $62,500 annually or the amount of real property taxes owed during a year |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Real Property Tax Exemption for Green Buildings |
| Incentive Amount | Upon local adoption, 20% - 100% of real property taxes owed; varies by year and certification level |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | NY-Sun PV Incentive Program (Residential, Low-Income, and Small Business) |
| Incentive Amount | Incentive rates step down over time as MW goals are met. Incentive rates as of 11/27/2019 are: Residential: Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed) Con Edison Region: $0.30/W Upstate Region: $0.35/W Low-to-Moderate income customers: $0.80/W (up to 10 kW) Small Commercial (Non-Residential):Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed) Con Edison Region: $0.60/W Up State Region: $0.45/W Multifamily Affordable Housing Adder: additional $0.40/W (up to 50 kW) |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Home Performance with ENERGY STAR |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | NY Green Bank |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Solar Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | Upon local authorization, 100% exemption from local sales tax |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | New York City - Residential Solar Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% local sales tax exemption |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Solar Sales Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption from state sales tax |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Energy Conservation Improvements Property Tax Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% of the value added to the residence by the improvements |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | NY-Sun Loan Program |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Local Option - Solar, Wind & Biomass Energy Systems Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% exemption for 15 years (unless local jurisdiction has opted out) |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry 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.
- 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 what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
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 Technology
Tesla Energy
4.5
- 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 Queens, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Queens?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-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?
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 consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Queens?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get 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 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 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.
