Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bedford, NY (2024 Update)

  • Bedford Solar Installation Cost: $10,696
  • 25-Year Savings: $15,425
  • Payback Period: 11.1 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

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Bedford

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Bedford.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Bedford it’s 4 per watt.The average Bedford homeowner needs a 4.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $10,696 with the federal tax credit, or $15,295 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Bedford homeowners see about $22,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Bedford for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Bedford

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-8,816
3 years $-5,057
5 years $-1,298
7 years $2,462
9 years $6,221
11 years $9,981
13 years $13,740
15 years $17,499
17 years $21,259
19 years $25,018
21 years $28,777
23 years $32,537
25 years $36,296

Top Solar Installers in Bedford

Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra energy and know-how. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also have access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for your home.

If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Bedford, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:

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 Bedford

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bedford

Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Bedford: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $3,650. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Bedford, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Bedford to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest.It’s a good idea to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Bedford, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Bedford are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 $3.80 $15,943 $18,554 11.6 years
8 kW $3.72 $20,849 $25,148 11.3 years
10 kW $3.65 $25,550 $31,946 11.1 years
12 kW $3.58 $30,047 $38,949 10.9 years
14 kW $3.50 $34,339 $46,155 10.7 years
16 kW $3.43 $38,427 $53,567 10.4 years
18 kW $3.36 $42,311 $61,182 10.2 years
20 kW $3.29 $45,990 $69,002 10.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Contract: When looking over your solar installer’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you’d like plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.

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 Bedford, NY Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bedford?

The average cost of solar panels in Bedford is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Can you get solar panels for free in Bedford?

Solar panels aren’t free in Bedford, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

Is it worth going solar in Bedford?

Solar panels can be a great investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.

How long do solar panels last in Bedford?

On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 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.

Follow us