Solar Panel Cost Guide in Williamstown, VT (Mar 2023)
- Williamstown Solar Installation Cost: $11,210
- 25-Year Savings: $24,877
- Payback Period: 7.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Williamstown
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Williamstown.
The average cost of solar panels in Williamstown is 2.87 per watt. The average Williamstown homeowner needs a 5.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,210 with the federal tax credit, or $16,030 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Williamstown homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Even with the significant initial cost, the average Williamstown homeowner can save around $25,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Williamstown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,767 |
| 3 years | $-6,880 |
| 5 years | $-3,993 |
| 7 years | $-1,106 |
| 9 years | $1,781 |
| 11 years | $4,668 |
| 13 years | $7,555 |
| 15 years | $10,442 |
| 17 years | $13,329 |
| 19 years | $16,216 |
| 21 years | $19,103 |
| 23 years | $21,990 |
| 25 years | $24,877 |
Top Solar Installers in Williamstown
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra energy and knowledge. That's one of the reasons most people choose a solar panel installer. Also, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar energy, going with a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Williamstown:
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 Williamstown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Williamstown
There are several factors that can play into your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of 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 generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,870. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Williamstown provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Williamstown homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar 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 Williamstown know more 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 | $2.98 | $12,536 | $26,233 | 8.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.93 | $16,393 | $35,299 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.87 | $20,090 | $44,526 | 7.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.81 | $23,626 | $53,913 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.76 | $27,001 | $63,461 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.70 | $30,215 | $73,170 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.64 | $33,269 | $83,039 | 7.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.58 | $36,162 | $93,070 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
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 Williamstown, VT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Williamstown?
The average cost of solar panels in Williamstown 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Do solar panels increase your property value?
Solar panels can increase your home value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing solar panels."
How long do solar panels last in Williamstown?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.