Solar Panel Cost Guide in Westmere, NY (2023 Update)
- Westmere Solar Installation Cost: $9,189
- 25-Year Savings: $7,018
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Westmere
We break down average solar pricing in Westmere.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Westmere typically cost around 2.95. The average solar panel system size in Westmere is around 4.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,189 for a solar installation, or $13,140 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy needs, the type of solar system you choose, your solar contractor and more. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Westmere
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,541 |
| 3 years | $-7,244 |
| 5 years | $-5,948 |
| 7 years | $-4,651 |
| 9 years | $-3,355 |
| 11 years | $-2,058 |
| 13 years | $-762 |
| 15 years | $535 |
| 17 years | $1,832 |
| 19 years | $3,128 |
| 21 years | $4,425 |
| 23 years | $5,721 |
| 25 years | $7,018 |
Top Solar Installers in Westmere
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and know-how. That's why almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies offer can be valuable as well, particularly if you aren't sure what type of solar equipment you need.
Working with a vetted solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Westmere
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Westmere
There are many factors that can determine your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use 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 $2,950. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will largely impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Westmere, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $8,949 | 14.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $12,262 | 14.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $15,740 | 14.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $19,384 | 13.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $23,193 | 13.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $27,167 | 13.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $31,306 | 13.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $35,610 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and types of panels. If you know you want 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
EcoWatch's Westmere, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Westmere?
The average cost of solar panels in Westmere is about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual 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.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Westmere?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
How will solar panels impact the value of my home?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Westmere is currently $243,160, which means you can look forward to a value of about $9,970 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Westmere is a fruitful investment.
How long do solar panels last in Westmere?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.