Solar Panel Cost Guide in Skaneateles, NY (2023 Update)
- Skaneateles Solar Installation Cost: $9,561
- 25-Year Savings: $6,021
- Payback Period: 15.3 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Skaneateles
We go over average solar pricing in Skaneateles.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Skaneateles is 2.95 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Skaneateles is around 4.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,561 for a solar installation, or $13,672 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $13,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Skaneateles
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,938 |
| 3 years | $-7,691 |
| 5 years | $-6,445 |
| 7 years | $-5,198 |
| 9 years | $-3,952 |
| 11 years | $-2,705 |
| 13 years | $-1,458 |
| 15 years | $-212 |
| 17 years | $1,035 |
| 19 years | $2,281 |
| 21 years | $3,528 |
| 23 years | $4,774 |
| 25 years | $6,021 |
Top Solar Installers in Skaneateles
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar company can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
There are various 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
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 Skaneateles
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Skaneateles
For many Skaneateles homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Skaneateles, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Skaneateles, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,950 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you choose 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 utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Skaneateles homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you pick will influence your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Skaneateles know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $7,298 | 16.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $10,061 | 15.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $12,989 | 15.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $16,083 | 15.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $19,341 | 14.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $22,765 | 14.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $26,354 | 14.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $30,108 | 13.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will impact 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, including:
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
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 Skaneateles, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Skaneateles?
The average cost of solar panels in Skaneateles 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 stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Skaneateles?
A solar panel system isn't free in Skaneateles, 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 you can take advantage of.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Skaneateles, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.