Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hartford, SD (2023 Update)
- Hartford Solar Installation Cost: $14,789
- 25-Year Savings: $21,896
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hartford
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Hartford.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Hartford generally cost around 2.39. The average Hartford homeowner needs a 8.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,789 with the federal tax credit, or $21,148 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Hartford based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Hartford can save about $16,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a highly rated solar company in Hartford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hartford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,322 |
| 3 years | $-10,387 |
| 5 years | $-7,452 |
| 7 years | $-4,517 |
| 9 years | $-1,582 |
| 11 years | $1,352 |
| 13 years | $4,287 |
| 15 years | $7,222 |
| 17 years | $10,157 |
| 19 years | $13,092 |
| 21 years | $16,027 |
| 23 years | $18,962 |
| 25 years | $21,896 |
Top Solar Installers in Hartford
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels on your own can be time-consuming. The expertise that solar installers offer can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Hartford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hartford
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Hartford: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production use 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 $2,390. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Hartford average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Hartford homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you choose will affect your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Hartford have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage 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 | $2.49 | $10,440 | $14,469 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.44 | $13,652 | $19,560 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.39 | $16,730 | $24,785 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.34 | $19,674 | $30,143 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.29 | $22,485 | $35,635 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.25 | $25,162 | $41,261 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.20 | $27,705 | $47,021 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.15 | $30,114 | $52,915 | 9.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have 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.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Hartford, SD Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hartford?
The average cost of solar panels in Hartford is about $11,950 for a 5-kW system and $23,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Hartford, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that 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?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce 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.