Solar Panel Cost Guide in Northfield, VT (2023 Update)
- Northfield Solar Installation Cost: $11,288
- 25-Year Savings: $20,582
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Northfield
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Northfield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Northfield, the average cost of a solar system is 2.87 per watt. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Northfield, most homeowners require a 5.6-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $11,291, or $16,146 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Northfield based on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. With average savings of about $22,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Northfield find going solar can be quite rewarding.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Northfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,927 |
| 3 years | $-7,205 |
| 5 years | $-4,483 |
| 7 years | $-1,762 |
| 9 years | $960 |
| 11 years | $3,682 |
| 13 years | $6,404 |
| 15 years | $9,125 |
| 17 years | $11,847 |
| 19 years | $14,569 |
| 21 years | $17,291 |
| 23 years | $20,012 |
| 25 years | $22,734 |
Top Solar Installers in Northfield
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra time and know-how. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Northfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Northfield
There are several criteria that can affect your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,870. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Northfield average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Northfield have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Northfield, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. The company's size sometimes plays the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally 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 | $2.98 | $12,536 | $21,496 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.93 | $16,393 | $28,983 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.87 | $20,090 | $36,631 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.81 | $23,626 | $44,439 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.76 | $27,001 | $52,408 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.70 | $30,215 | $60,538 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.64 | $33,269 | $68,829 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.58 | $36,162 | $77,280 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of options before deciding.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, 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 Northfield, VT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Northfield?
The average cost of solar panels in Northfield is about $14,350 for a 5-kW system and $28,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Northfield?
You can't get solar panels for free in Northfield. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,134.42 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.