Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wheatland, NY (Feb 2023)
- Wheatland Solar Installation Cost: $8,611
- 25-Year Savings: $7,956
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wheatland
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Wheatland.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Wheatland typically cost around $3. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Wheatland, most homeowners require a 4.2-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $8,611, or $6,372 after the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Wheatland can save around $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installation company in Wheatland, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Wheatland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,948 |
| 3 years | $-6,623 |
| 5 years | $-5,298 |
| 7 years | $-3,972 |
| 9 years | $-2,647 |
| 11 years | $-1,322 |
| 13 years | $4 |
| 15 years | $1,329 |
| 17 years | $2,654 |
| 19 years | $3,980 |
| 21 years | $5,305 |
| 23 years | $6,630 |
| 25 years | $7,956 |
Top Solar Installers in Wheatland
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some 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 Wheatland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wheatland
Although the average cost of a solar system in Wheatland is $8,611, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few 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 take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production require 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. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Wheatland to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will impact your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fit into your budget.
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 | $10,955 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $14,937 | 13.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $19,084 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $23,397 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $27,874 | 12.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $32,517 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $37,325 | 12.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $42,298 | 11.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: When looking through your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
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 Wheatland, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Wheatland?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra 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.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Wheatland have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though 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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to 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.
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.