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

  • Tioga Solar Installation Cost: $9,540
  • 25-Year Savings: $4,847
  • Payback Period: 16.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 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 Tioga

Here's how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Tioga.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Tioga, the average cost of solar panels is 2.95 per watt. Because a 4.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Tioga, the average price of going solar will be about $9,540 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

These figures are only estimates, and how much solar costs for you will most likely look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Tioga can save around $12,000 on their power bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Tioga

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,965
3 years $-7,814
5 years $-6,663
7 years $-5,512
9 years $-4,361
11 years $-3,210
13 years $-2,059
15 years $-908
17 years $243
19 years $1,394
21 years $2,545
23 years $3,696
25 years $4,847

Top Solar Installers in Tioga

Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra effort and know-how. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Local solar installation companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can take advantage of and by providing warranties and repairs.

If you're searching for a solar installer in Tioga, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

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 Tioga

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tioga

There are several criteria that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,950. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Tioga homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Tioga, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Tioga know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 $5,793 17.2 years
8 kW $3.01 $16,850 $8,054 16.9 years
10 kW $2.95 $20,650 $10,481 16.6 years
12 kW $2.89 $24,284 $13,072 16.3 years
14 kW $2.83 $27,754 $15,829 15.9 years
16 kW $2.77 $31,058 $18,751 15.6 years
18 kW $2.71 $34,196 $21,839 15.3 years
20 kW $2.66 $37,170 $25,091 14.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have verifiable expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from past customers.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of options before making your decision.

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 Tioga, NY Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Tioga 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?

It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Tioga, 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 contact 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 usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.

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