Solar Panel Cost Guide in Williamson, NY (2023 Update)

  • Williamson Solar Installation Cost: $8,957
  • 25-Year Savings: $7,334
  • Payback Period: 13.7 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Williamson

Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Williamson.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Williamson it's 2.95 per watt. Since a 4.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Williamson, the average price of going solar will be about $8,962 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Williamson

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,903
3 years $-8,794
5 years $-8,686
7 years $-8,577
9 years $-8,469
11 years $-8,360
13 years $-8,251
15 years $-8,143
17 years $-8,034
19 years $-7,926
21 years $-7,817
23 years $-7,708
25 years $-7,600

Top Solar Installers in Williamson

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.

Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Williamson

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Williamson

For many Williamson homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Williamson, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,950. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installation company you choose will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. 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 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 $9,649 14.3 years
8 kW $3.01 $16,850 $13,196 14.0 years
10 kW $2.95 $20,650 $16,908 13.7 years
12 kW $2.89 $24,284 $20,785 13.5 years
14 kW $2.83 $27,754 $24,827 13.2 years
16 kW $2.77 $31,058 $29,035 12.9 years
18 kW $2.71 $34,196 $33,408 12.6 years
20 kW $2.66 $37,170 $37,946 12.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies to choose from in Williamson, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Installation Process: When going solar, it's important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
  • Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
  • 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Williamson, NY Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Williamson?

This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,750 for a 5-kW system and $29,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Williamson?

A solar panel system isn't free in Williamson, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Is it worth going solar in Williamson?

Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.

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.

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