Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rotterdam, NY (2024 Update)
- Rotterdam Solar Installation Cost: $11,361
- 25-Year Savings: $7,025
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rotterdam
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Rotterdam.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Rotterdam, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.4-kW system would cost about $11,361 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Rotterdam can save around $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Rotterdam that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Rotterdam
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,452 |
| 3 years | $-8,635 |
| 5 years | $-6,818 |
| 7 years | $-5,001 |
| 9 years | $-3,184 |
| 11 years | $-1,367 |
| 13 years | $451 |
| 15 years | $2,268 |
| 17 years | $4,085 |
| 19 years | $5,902 |
| 21 years | $7,719 |
| 23 years | $9,536 |
| 25 years | $11,353 |
Top Solar Installers in Rotterdam
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar company can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
If you're looking for a solar company in Rotterdam, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Rotterdam
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rotterdam
For many Rotterdam homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Rotterdam, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Rotterdam, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,650 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Rotterdam, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited 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
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular choice 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’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 securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panels can affect how much it costs. Rotterdam’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $5,926 | 18.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $8,310 | 17.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $10,898 | 17.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $13,691 | 17.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $16,689 | 16.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $19,890 | 16.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $23,296 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $26,907 | 15.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid 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: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the project timeline.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like 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 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 Rotterdam, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Rotterdam?
The average cost of solar panels in Rotterdam 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.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Rotterdam have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs 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 house 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.