Solar Panel Cost Guide in Randolph, VT (2024 Update)
- Randolph Solar Installation Cost: $15,051
- 25-Year Savings: $26,072
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Randolph
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Randolph.
In Randolph, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Randolph is around 5.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,051 for a solar installation, or $21,523 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go above or below the average in Randolph depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Randolph
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,690 |
| 3 years | $-10,968 |
| 5 years | $-8,247 |
| 7 years | $-5,525 |
| 9 years | $-2,803 |
| 11 years | $-81 |
| 13 years | $2,640 |
| 15 years | $5,362 |
| 17 years | $8,084 |
| 19 years | $10,806 |
| 21 years | $13,528 |
| 23 years | $16,249 |
| 25 years | $18,971 |
Top Solar Installers in Randolph
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra labor and know-how. For that reason, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Randolph
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Randolph
Although the average cost of a solar system in Randolph is $15,051, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $3,850. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Randolph, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Randolph offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Randolph, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down 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 | $4.00 | $16,817 | $23,247 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.93 | $21,991 | $31,427 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.85 | $26,950 | $39,823 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.77 | $31,693 | $48,435 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.70 | $36,221 | $57,262 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.62 | $40,533 | $66,304 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.54 | $44,629 | $75,563 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.47 | $48,510 | $85,037 | 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 models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from previous customers.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Randolph, VT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Randolph?
The average cost of solar panels in Randolph is about $19,250 for a 5-kW system and $38,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Randolph?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can solar panels eliminate my energy bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Randolph, 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 check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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 account for 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.