Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rutherford, PA (2023 Update)
- Rutherford Solar Installation Cost: $11,995
- 25-Year Savings: $12,744
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rutherford
See how much it might cost to install solar panels in Rutherford.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Rutherford typically cost around 2.55. Using this figure, a typical 6.7-kW system would cost about $11,995 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will differ based on your specific situation and what company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Rutherford homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in Rutherford for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Rutherford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,006 |
| 3 years | $-9,026 |
| 5 years | $-7,047 |
| 7 years | $-5,068 |
| 9 years | $-3,089 |
| 11 years | $-1,110 |
| 13 years | $869 |
| 15 years | $2,849 |
| 17 years | $4,828 |
| 19 years | $6,807 |
| 21 years | $8,786 |
| 23 years | $10,765 |
| 25 years | $12,744 |
Top Solar Installers in Rutherford
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a stressful undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar companies offer can be valuable as well, especially if you don't quite know what type of solar equipment you need.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Rutherford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rutherford
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Rutherford: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,550 per kilowatt in Rutherford. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more 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
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Rutherford, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can influence the cost. Rutherford's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Rutherford have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.65 | $11,138 | $10,962 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,902 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $18,984 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,209 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,577 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,088 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,742 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,538 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose considerably impacts 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:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you go with.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Rutherford, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Rutherford?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.