Solar Panel Cost Guide in Williston, VT (2023 Update)
- Williston Solar Installation Cost: $11,491
- 25-Year Savings: $22,849
- Payback Period: 8.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Williston
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Williston.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Williston generally cost around 2.87. Using this figure, a typical 5.7-kW system would cost about $11,491 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs may look different based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you want to go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Williston can save around $23,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Williston that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Williston
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,118 |
| 3 years | $-7,371 |
| 5 years | $-4,623 |
| 7 years | $-1,876 |
| 9 years | $871 |
| 11 years | $3,618 |
| 13 years | $6,366 |
| 15 years | $9,113 |
| 17 years | $11,860 |
| 19 years | $14,607 |
| 21 years | $17,355 |
| 23 years | $20,102 |
| 25 years | $22,849 |
Top Solar Installers in Williston
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Williston, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Williston
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Williston
While the average cost of a solar system in Williston is $11,491, your final cost may be above or below the average. 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 important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Williston, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,870 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Williston have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Williston homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can affect your pricing. Williston's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Williston are more knowledgeable 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 end up saving you 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 | $23,490 | 8.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.93 | $16,393 | $31,642 | 8.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.87 | $20,090 | $39,954 | 8.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.81 | $23,626 | $48,427 | 8.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.76 | $27,001 | $57,060 | 8.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.70 | $30,215 | $65,855 | 7.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.64 | $33,269 | $74,810 | 7.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.58 | $36,162 | $83,926 | 7.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high 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 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 Williston, VT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Williston?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,350 for a 5-kW system and $28,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Williston?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Williston?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.