Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rotterdam, NY (2023 Update)

  • Rotterdam Solar Installation Cost: $9,182
  • 25-Year Savings: $7,025
  • Payback Period: 14.2 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rotterdam

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Rotterdam.

In Rotterdam, solar panels cost about 2.95 per watt on average. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Rotterdam, most homeowners require a 4.5-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $9,189, or $13,140 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Rotterdam depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. Even with the high initial cost, the average Rotterdam homeowner can save around $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.

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 Rotterdam

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,274
3 years $-6,456
5 years $-4,639
7 years $-2,822
9 years $-1,005
11 years $812
13 years $2,629
15 years $4,447
17 years $6,264
19 years $8,081
21 years $9,898
23 years $11,715
25 years $13,532

Top Solar Installers in Rotterdam

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Rotterdam

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rotterdam

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Rotterdam is $9,189, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,950. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just 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 power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Rotterdam homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can influence the cost. Rotterdam's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.

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 $8,983 14.7 years
8 kW $3.01 $16,850 $12,308 14.4 years
10 kW $2.95 $20,650 $15,798 14.2 years
12 kW $2.89 $24,284 $19,454 13.9 years
14 kW $2.83 $27,754 $23,274 13.6 years
16 kW $2.77 $31,058 $27,260 13.3 years
18 kW $2.71 $34,196 $31,411 13.0 years
20 kW $2.66 $37,170 $35,727 12.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar panel company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, such as:

  • Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you choose.
  • Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Rotterdam, NY Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Rotterdam?

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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Rotterdam?

A solar panel system isn't free in Rotterdam, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Rotterdam?

Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates 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 long do solar panels last in Rotterdam?

Although 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can 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.

Follow us