Solar Panel Cost Guide in Watertown, NY (Mar 2023)
- Watertown Solar Installation Cost: $9,520
- 25-Year Savings: $6,687
- Payback Period: 14.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Watertown
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Watertown.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Watertown generally cost about 2.95. Because a 4.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Watertown, the average price of going solar will be about $9,520 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Watertown can save around $13,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installation company in Watertown, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Watertown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,871 |
| 3 years | $-7,575 |
| 5 years | $-6,278 |
| 7 years | $-4,982 |
| 9 years | $-3,685 |
| 11 years | $-2,389 |
| 13 years | $-1,092 |
| 15 years | $205 |
| 17 years | $1,501 |
| 19 years | $2,798 |
| 21 years | $4,094 |
| 23 years | $5,391 |
| 25 years | $6,687 |
Top Solar Installers in Watertown
Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a challenging task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you're not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Watertown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Watertown
There are several criteria that can play into your solar system 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 panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,950. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Watertown, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Watertown homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Watertown, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $8,215 | 15.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $11,283 | 15.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $14,517 | 14.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $17,916 | 14.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $21,481 | 14.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $25,210 | 13.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $29,105 | 13.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $33,165 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you 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.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer 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 Watertown, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Watertown?
The average cost of solar panels in Watertown 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 kind 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 Watertown?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Does Watertown have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Watertown?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.