Solar Panel Cost Guide in Riverhead, NY (Mar 2023)
- Riverhead Solar Installation Cost: $8,033
- 25-Year Savings: $14,338
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Riverhead
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Riverhead.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Riverhead, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.95 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 3.9-kW system would cost about $8,033 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs may vary based on your specific situation and what company you go with. With average savings of about $22,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Riverhead find going solar can be quite rewarding.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Riverhead
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,138 |
| 3 years | $-5,348 |
| 5 years | $-3,559 |
| 7 years | $-1,769 |
| 9 years | $21 |
| 11 years | $1,810 |
| 13 years | $3,600 |
| 15 years | $5,390 |
| 17 years | $7,179 |
| 19 years | $8,969 |
| 21 years | $10,759 |
| 23 years | $12,548 |
| 25 years | $14,338 |
Top Solar Installers in Riverhead
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. 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
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 Riverhead
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Riverhead
The cost of installing a solar system in Riverhead can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,950 per kilowatt in Riverhead. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Riverhead homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Riverhead, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fits 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 | $3.07 | $12,886 | $21,650 | 9.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $29,197 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $36,909 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $44,786 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $52,829 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $61,037 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $69,410 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $77,948 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid 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.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the longevity of your solar energy system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Riverhead, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Riverhead?
The average cost of solar panels in Riverhead is about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Riverhead?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Riverhead have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.