Solar Panel Cost Guide in University at Buffalo, NY (2025 Update)
- University at Buffalo Solar Installation Cost: $11,696
- 25-Year Savings: $6,285
- Payback Period: 18.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in University at Buffalo
We go over average solar pricing in University at Buffalo.
In University at Buffalo, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in University at Buffalo is around 4.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,696 for a solar installation, or $16,725 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Even with the high upfront cost, the average University at Buffalo homeowner can save about $13,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in University at Buffalo for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in University at Buffalo
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,815 |
| 3 years | $-9,053 |
| 5 years | $-7,291 |
| 7 years | $-5,529 |
| 9 years | $-3,767 |
| 11 years | $-2,005 |
| 13 years | $-243 |
| 15 years | $1,519 |
| 17 years | $3,281 |
| 19 years | $5,044 |
| 21 years | $6,806 |
| 23 years | $8,568 |
| 25 years | $10,330 |
Top Solar Installers in University at Buffalo
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a dangerous project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
See all of the solar companies in University at Buffalo
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in University at Buffalo
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in University at Buffalo: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation need 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.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to install 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 energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many University at Buffalo homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for University at Buffalo homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in University at Buffalo, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in University at Buffalo have more knowledge 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 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 | $3.80 | $15,943 | $4,685 | 19.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $6,655 | 19.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $8,830 | 18.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $11,209 | 18.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $13,793 | 17.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $16,580 | 17.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $19,573 | 17.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $22,770 | 16.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in University at Buffalo, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over carefully 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 part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
EcoWatch's University at Buffalo, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in University at Buffalo?
The average cost of solar panels in University at Buffalo 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.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in University at Buffalo?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Does University at Buffalo have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in University at Buffalo?
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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had 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.