Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wheatland, NY (2023 Update)
- Wheatland Solar Installation Cost: $8,610
- 25-Year Savings: $7,957
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wheatland
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Wheatland.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Wheatland generally cost about 2.95. Using this figure, a typical 4.2-kW system would cost about $8,611 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Wheatland homeowner can save about $15,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Wheatland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,701 |
| 3 years | $-5,884 |
| 5 years | $-4,067 |
| 7 years | $-2,250 |
| 9 years | $-433 |
| 11 years | $1,385 |
| 13 years | $3,202 |
| 15 years | $5,019 |
| 17 years | $6,836 |
| 19 years | $8,653 |
| 21 years | $10,470 |
| 23 years | $12,287 |
| 25 years | $14,105 |
Top Solar Installers in Wheatland
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. 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 Wheatland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wheatland
There are a number of factors that can play into 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
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Wheatland, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited 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
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Wheatland homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. 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
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Wheatland is the company you get to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, 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 | $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
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.