Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bridgewater, VA (2024 Update)
- Bridgewater Solar Installation Cost: $20,066
- 25-Year Savings: $20,023
- Payback Period: 14.2 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bridgewater
Here’s how much it might cost to install solar panels in Bridgewater.
The average cost of a solar system in Bridgewater is 4 per watt.Because a 8.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Bridgewater, the average price of going solar will be about $20,066 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 exact cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $17,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
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 Bridgewater
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-18,467 |
3 years | $-15,269 |
5 years | $-12,071 |
7 years | $-8,873 |
9 years | $-5,675 |
11 years | $-2,477 |
13 years | $721 |
15 years | $3,919 |
17 years | $7,116 |
19 years | $10,314 |
21 years | $13,512 |
23 years | $16,710 |
25 years | $19,908 |
Top Solar Installers in Bridgewater
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels on your own can be challenging. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, using a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
If you're looking for a solar company in Bridgewater, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- 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 Bridgewater
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bridgewater
Although the average cost of a solar system in Bridgewater is $20,066, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $3,590. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Bridgewater, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Bridgewater, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 kW | $3.73 | $15,681 | $10,915 | 14.7 years |
8 kW | $3.66 | $20,506 | $14,955 | 14.5 years |
10 kW | $3.59 | $25,130 | $19,197 | 14.2 years |
12 kW | $3.52 | $29,553 | $23,639 | 13.9 years |
14 kW | $3.45 | $33,775 | $28,283 | 13.6 years |
16 kW | $3.37 | $37,796 | $33,127 | 13.3 years |
18 kW | $3.30 | $41,615 | $38,173 | 13.0 years |
20 kW | $3.23 | $45,234 | $43,420 | 12.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Bridgewater, 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:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Bridgewater, VA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bridgewater?
The average cost of solar panels in Bridgewater is about $17,950 for a 5-kW system and $35,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Bridgewater?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Bridgewater. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Do solar panels increase the value of your home?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Bridgewater is currently $348,650, which means you can look forward to a value of about $14,295 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Bridgewater is a worthwhile investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.