Solar Panel Cost Guide in Union, NJ (2024 Update)
- Union Solar Installation Cost: $11,528
- 25-Year Savings: $7,971
- Payback Period: 16.9 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Union
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Union.
The average cost of a solar system in Union is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Union is around 4.7 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,528 for a solar installation, or $16,485 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you may look different based on your energy needs and what company you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Union can save about $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Union
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-10,469 |
3 years | $-8,351 |
5 years | $-6,232 |
7 years | $-4,114 |
9 years | $-1,996 |
11 years | $123 |
13 years | $2,241 |
15 years | $4,360 |
17 years | $6,478 |
19 years | $8,596 |
21 years | $10,715 |
23 years | $12,833 |
25 years | $14,952 |
Top Solar Installers in Union
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to use a solar installer since installing a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Union, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Union
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Union
While the average cost of a solar system in Union is $11,528, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $3,530 per kilowatt in Union.The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for 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 in the long run on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Union average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Union homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut 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 | $3.67 | $15,419 | $6,466 | 17.6 years |
8 kW | $3.60 | $20,163 | $9,016 | 17.3 years |
10 kW | $3.53 | $24,710 | $11,764 | 16.9 years |
12 kW | $3.46 | $29,059 | $14,710 | 16.6 years |
14 kW | $3.39 | $33,210 | $17,854 | 16.3 years |
16 kW | $3.32 | $37,164 | $21,195 | 15.9 years |
18 kW | $3.25 | $40,920 | $24,734 | 15.6 years |
20 kW | $3.18 | $44,478 | $28,471 | 15.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 Union, NJ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Union?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Union?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Union?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Union?
Although 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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.