Solar Panel Cost Guide in Stillwater, NY (2023 Update)
- Stillwater Solar Installation Cost: $9,259
- 25-Year Savings: $6,244
- Payback Period: 14.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Stillwater
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Stillwater.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Stillwater it's 2.95 per watt. Since a 4.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Stillwater, the average price of going solar will be about $9,251 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a vetted solar company in Stillwater, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Stillwater
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,208 |
| 3 years | $-9,104 |
| 5 years | $-9,001 |
| 7 years | $-8,898 |
| 9 years | $-8,794 |
| 11 years | $-8,691 |
| 13 years | $-8,588 |
| 15 years | $-8,484 |
| 17 years | $-8,381 |
| 19 years | $-8,278 |
| 21 years | $-8,174 |
| 23 years | $-8,071 |
| 25 years | $-7,967 |
Top Solar Installers in Stillwater
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Local solar companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Stillwater:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Stillwater
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Stillwater
Although the average cost of a solar system in Stillwater is $9,251, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand and kind of equipment you want 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 more savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Stillwater, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Stillwater homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Stillwater, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $12,886 | $7,859 | 15.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $10,809 | 15.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $13,925 | 14.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $17,205 | 14.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $20,651 | 14.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $24,262 | 14.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $28,038 | 13.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $31,980 | 13.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, such as:
- 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: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Stillwater, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Stillwater?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Stillwater?
You can't get solar panels for free in Stillwater. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Stillwater?
Solar panels can be a great investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.