Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wilson, NY (Mar 2023)
- Wilson Solar Installation Cost: $8,590
- 25-Year Savings: $7,617
- Payback Period: 13.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wilson
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Wilson.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Wilson, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.95 per watt. The average Wilson homeowner needs a 4.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $8,590 with the federal tax credit, or $12,284 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Wilson homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With average savings of about $15,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Wilson find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in Wilson for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Wilson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,942 |
| 3 years | $-6,646 |
| 5 years | $-5,349 |
| 7 years | $-4,052 |
| 9 years | $-2,756 |
| 11 years | $-1,459 |
| 13 years | $-163 |
| 15 years | $1,134 |
| 17 years | $2,430 |
| 19 years | $3,727 |
| 21 years | $5,023 |
| 23 years | $6,320 |
| 25 years | $7,617 |
Top Solar Installers in Wilson
Many homeowners decide to use a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Wilson:
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 Wilson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wilson
Though the average cost of a solar system in Wilson is $8,590, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher 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. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Wilson have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Wilson, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, 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 | $10,493 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.01 | $16,850 | $14,321 | 13.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.95 | $20,650 | $18,314 | 13.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.89 | $24,284 | $22,472 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.83 | $27,754 | $26,796 | 12.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.77 | $31,058 | $31,285 | 12.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.71 | $34,196 | $35,939 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.66 | $37,170 | $40,758 | 11.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 Wilson, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Wilson?
The average cost of solar panels in Wilson 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 certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Wilson?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or secure 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.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Wilson, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 higher 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.