Solar Panel Cost Guide in Saranac, NY (2024 Update)
- Saranac Solar Installation Cost: $11,879
- 25-Year Savings: $5,433
- Payback Period: 19.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Saranac
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Saranac.
The average cost of solar panels in Saranac is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.6-kW system would cost about $11,879 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you may look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average Saranac homeowners see about $12,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Saranac
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,053 |
| 3 years | $-9,402 |
| 5 years | $-7,750 |
| 7 years | $-6,098 |
| 9 years | $-4,446 |
| 11 years | $-2,794 |
| 13 years | $-1,142 |
| 15 years | $509 |
| 17 years | $2,161 |
| 19 years | $3,813 |
| 21 years | $5,465 |
| 23 years | $7,117 |
| 25 years | $8,769 |
Top Solar Installers in Saranac
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for your home.
If you're looking for a solar company in Saranac, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 Saranac
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Saranac
There are a number of factors that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with 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 $3,650.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Saranac average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Saranac provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will influence your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.80 | $15,943 | $3,458 | 20.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $5,020 | 20.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $6,786 | 19.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $8,756 | 19.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $10,931 | 19.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $13,310 | 18.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $15,893 | 18.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $18,681 | 17.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Saranac, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Saranac?
The average cost of solar panels in Saranac is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Saranac?
Solar panels aren’t free in Saranac, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $646.71 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.