Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lopatcong, NJ (2024 Update)
- Lopatcong Solar Installation Cost: $11,855
- 25-Year Savings: $6,881
- Payback Period: 18.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lopatcong
Here’s how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Lopatcong.
The average cost of a solar system in Lopatcong is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Lopatcong, most homeowners require a 4.8-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $11,855, or $16,953 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 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 depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.With typical savings of about $13,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Lopatcong find going solar can pay off big.
To get a free estimate from a highly rated solar installer in Lopatcong, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Lopatcong
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,796 |
| 3 years | $-8,678 |
| 5 years | $-6,559 |
| 7 years | $-4,441 |
| 9 years | $-2,323 |
| 11 years | $-204 |
| 13 years | $1,914 |
| 15 years | $4,033 |
| 17 years | $6,151 |
| 19 years | $8,269 |
| 21 years | $10,388 |
| 23 years | $12,506 |
| 25 years | $14,625 |
Top Solar Installers in Lopatcong
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra labor and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies provide can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren’t sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
If you’d like to switch to solar energy but still aren’t certain which solar company 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 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 Lopatcong
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lopatcong
There are many factors that can influence your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Lopatcong, where sunlight is relatively 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 companies in Lopatcong provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Lopatcong homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Lopatcong, and each can charge different amounts for labor and 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 prices because of access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower 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 | $3.67 | $15,419 | $4,820 | 19.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $6,822 | 18.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $9,022 | 18.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $11,419 | 17.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $14,014 | 17.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $16,807 | 17.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $19,797 | 16.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $22,985 | 16.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the durability of your solar panel system, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of options before deciding.
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 Lopatcong, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lopatcong?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration 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.
Is it worth going solar in Lopatcong?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Lopatcong?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.