Solar Panel Cost Guide in Windsor, VT (2023 Update)
- Windsor Solar Installation Cost: $11,009
- 25-Year Savings: $22,748
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Windsor
We break down average solar pricing in Windsor.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Windsor, the average cost of a solar system is 2.87 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.5-kW system would cost about $11,009 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $23,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Windsor that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Windsor
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,659 |
| 3 years | $-6,958 |
| 5 years | $-4,258 |
| 7 years | $-1,557 |
| 9 years | $1,143 |
| 11 years | $3,844 |
| 13 years | $6,545 |
| 15 years | $9,245 |
| 17 years | $11,946 |
| 19 years | $14,647 |
| 21 years | $17,347 |
| 23 years | $20,048 |
| 25 years | $22,748 |
Top Solar Installers in Windsor
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Windsor, optimizing your ROI.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Windsor
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Windsor
The cost of installing a solar system in Windsor can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation need 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 solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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 electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Windsor average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Windsor, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only 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 finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Windsor is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $24,428 | 8.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.93 | $16,393 | $32,892 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.87 | $20,090 | $41,517 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.81 | $23,626 | $50,302 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.76 | $27,001 | $59,248 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.70 | $30,215 | $68,355 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.64 | $33,269 | $77,623 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.58 | $36,162 | $87,051 | 7.3 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 decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about your solar system's energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you go with.
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 Windsor, VT Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Windsor?
The average cost of solar panels in Windsor 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 things 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 thing to think about when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Windsor have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
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 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 install 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.