Solar Panel Cost Guide in Barrington, RI (2024 Update)

  • Barrington Solar Installation Cost: $11,673
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,802
  • Payback Period: 13.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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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 Barrington

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Barrington.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Barrington typically cost about 4.Because a 4.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Barrington, the average price of going solar will be about $11,673 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual 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.With average savings of about $20,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Barrington find investing in solar can pay off big.

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

Solar savings over time in Barrington

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-10,142
3 years $-7,079
5 years $-4,017
7 years $-955
9 years $2,107
11 years $5,169
13 years $8,231
15 years $11,293
17 years $14,355
19 years $17,417
21 years $20,479
23 years $23,541
25 years $26,603

Top Solar Installers in Barrington

DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but working with a solar installer can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Barrington, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:

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 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

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

See all of the solar companies in Barrington

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Barrington

The cost of installing a solar system in Barrington can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

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 generation need 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 $4,070.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Barrington, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Barrington have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.Even though solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Barrington homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can play a part in determining your pricing. Barrington’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Barrington know more 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 end up saving you 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 $4.23 $17,778 $14,362 13.8 years
8 kW $4.15 $23,248 $19,606 13.6 years
10 kW $4.07 $28,490 $25,077 13.3 years
12 kW $3.99 $33,504 $30,776 13.0 years
14 kW $3.91 $38,291 $36,703 12.8 years
16 kW $3.83 $42,849 $42,858 12.5 years
18 kW $3.74 $47,179 $49,241 12.2 years
20 kW $3.66 $51,282 $55,851 12.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies to choose from in Barrington, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
  • Warranty: If you’re concerned about the durability of your solar energy system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.

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 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

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

EcoWatch's Barrington, RI Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Barrington?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $20,350 for a 5-kW system and $40,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Barrington?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Barrington?

Each state has some kind 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 long do solar panels last in Barrington?

Even 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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.

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