Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pittsfield, NH (2024 Update)
- Pittsfield Solar Installation Cost: $14,710
- 25-Year Savings: $15,151
- Payback Period: 14.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pittsfield
See how much it might cost to go solar in Pittsfield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Pittsfield, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average Pittsfield homeowner needs a 5.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,710 with the federal tax credit, or $21,035 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Pittsfield based on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Pittsfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,303 |
| 3 years | $-10,489 |
| 5 years | $-7,676 |
| 7 years | $-4,862 |
| 9 years | $-2,048 |
| 11 years | $765 |
| 13 years | $3,579 |
| 15 years | $6,392 |
| 17 years | $9,206 |
| 19 years | $12,020 |
| 21 years | $14,833 |
| 23 years | $17,647 |
| 25 years | $20,461 |
Top Solar Installers in Pittsfield
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Pittsfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pittsfield
While the average cost of a solar system in Pittsfield is $14,710, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production 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 $4,220.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Pittsfield, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Pittsfield have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.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’re only able to 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 getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Pittsfield, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Pittsfield have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $4.39 | $18,433 | $12,045 | 15.1 years |
| 8 kW | $4.30 | $24,105 | $16,533 | 14.8 years |
| 10 kW | $4.22 | $29,540 | $21,256 | 14.5 years |
| 12 kW | $4.14 | $34,739 | $26,217 | 14.2 years |
| 14 kW | $4.05 | $39,702 | $31,413 | 14.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.97 | $44,428 | $36,846 | 13.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.88 | $48,918 | $42,515 | 13.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.80 | $53,172 | $48,421 | 13.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: Long-running 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 quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Pittsfield, NH Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Pittsfield?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $21,100 for a 5-kW system and $42,200 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Pittsfield, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.