Solar Panel Cost Guide in Buffalo, WY (2024 Update)
- Buffalo Solar Installation Cost: $38,438
- 25-Year Savings: $48,265
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Buffalo
We break down average solar pricing in Buffalo.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Buffalo it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 15.3-kW system would cost about $38,438 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $19,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Buffalo find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Buffalo
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-37,337 |
| 3 years | $-35,136 |
| 5 years | $-32,934 |
| 7 years | $-30,733 |
| 9 years | $-28,531 |
| 11 years | $-26,329 |
| 13 years | $-24,128 |
| 15 years | $-21,926 |
| 17 years | $-19,725 |
| 19 years | $-17,523 |
| 21 years | $-15,321 |
| 23 years | $-13,120 |
| 25 years | $-10,918 |
Top Solar Installers in Buffalo
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a challenging undertaking, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Solar installers offer key benefits that can help you maximize your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Buffalo:
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
Outstanding Local Installer
ES Solar
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Lifetime workmanship warranty
- Outstanding customer service
- No leases or PPAs
- Energy audits only available 12 months after installation
Solar Veteran
Creative Energies
- Certified B Corp
- Outstanding customer service
- Many years of experience
- Multitude of products and services
- No leases or PPAs
- Slightly expensive
See all of the solar companies in Buffalo
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Buffalo
While the average cost of a solar system in Buffalo is $38,438, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,580 per kilowatt in Buffalo.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower 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 a small roof 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 Buffalo offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Buffalo homeowners, they can also increase 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 cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Buffalo is the company you get to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you’ll have many options for solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.72 | $15,637 | $14,036 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.65 | $20,449 | $19,116 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.58 | $25,060 | $24,396 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.51 | $29,471 | $29,877 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.44 | $33,681 | $35,558 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.37 | $37,690 | $41,440 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.29 | $41,499 | $47,522 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.22 | $45,108 | $53,804 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high 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.
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
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
Outstanding Local Installer
ES Solar
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Lifetime workmanship warranty
- Outstanding customer service
- No leases or PPAs
- Energy audits only available 12 months after installation
Solar Veteran
Creative Energies
- Certified B Corp
- Outstanding customer service
- Many years of experience
- Multitude of products and services
- No leases or PPAs
- Slightly expensive
EcoWatch's Buffalo, WY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Buffalo?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,900 for a 5-kW system and $35,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Buffalo?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Buffalo, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Buffalo?
The majority of 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 energy 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 consumption and the average daily 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 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.