Solar Panel Cost Guide in Union City, NJ (2024 Update)

  • Union City Solar Installation Cost: $11,370
  • 25-Year Savings: $8,928
  • Payback Period: 15.9 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Union City

Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Union City.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Union City it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.6-kW system would cost about $11,370 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Union City based on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.With average savings of about $15,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Union City find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.

To get a free quote from a highly rated solar company in Union City, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Union City

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-9,948
3 years $-7,103
5 years $-4,258
7 years $-1,414
9 years $1,431
11 years $4,276
13 years $7,120
15 years $9,965
17 years $12,810
19 years $15,655
21 years $18,499
23 years $21,344
25 years $24,189

Top Solar Installers in Union City

Putting up solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.

There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 City

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Union City

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Union City is $11,370, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,530. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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 extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panels can play a role in determining the cost. Union City’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Union City are more knowledgeable 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 $3.67 $15,419 $7,856 16.6 years
8 kW $3.60 $20,163 $10,871 16.2 years
10 kW $3.53 $24,710 $14,082 15.9 years
12 kW $3.46 $29,059 $17,492 15.6 years
14 kW $3.39 $33,210 $21,099 15.3 years
16 kW $3.32 $37,164 $24,904 15.0 years
18 kW $3.25 $40,920 $28,906 14.7 years
20 kW $3.18 $44,478 $33,107 14.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Union City, 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:

  • Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you choose.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
  • Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Union City, NJ Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Union City?

The average cost of solar panels in Union City is about $17,650 for a 5-kW system and $35,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Union City?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.

Does Union City have a net metering program?

Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.

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