Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carlisle, MA (2024 Update)
- Carlisle Solar Installation Cost: $12,674
- 25-Year Savings: $16,821
- Payback Period: 12.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Carlisle
We break down average solar pricing in Carlisle.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Carlisle, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Carlisle, most homeowners require a 4.5-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $12,674, or $18,124 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Carlisle homeowner. The cost 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 high initial cost, the average Carlisle homeowner can save around $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Carlisle
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,950 |
| 3 years | $-7,503 |
| 5 years | $-4,057 |
| 7 years | $-610 |
| 9 years | $2,837 |
| 11 years | $6,284 |
| 13 years | $9,731 |
| 15 years | $13,178 |
| 17 years | $16,625 |
| 19 years | $20,072 |
| 21 years | $23,518 |
| 23 years | $26,965 |
| 25 years | $30,412 |
Top Solar Installers in Carlisle
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Carlisle
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carlisle
For many Carlisle homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Carlisle, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important 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 energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $4,060 per kilowatt in Carlisle.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can influence your pricing. Carlisle’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion 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 | $4.22 | $17,734 | $17,246 | 12.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $23,449 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $29,880 | 12.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $36,538 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $43,424 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $50,536 | 11.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $57,876 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $65,444 | 11.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Carlisle, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good 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 service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Carlisle, MA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Carlisle?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Carlisle?
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 can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Carlisle?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Carlisle?
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 higher amount 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.