Solar Panel Cost Guide in Syracuse, NY (2024 Update)
- Syracuse Solar Installation Cost: $11,835
- 25-Year Savings: $5,924
- Payback Period: 19.1 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Syracuse
We go over average solar pricing in Syracuse.
In Syracuse, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Syracuse is around 4.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,835 for a solar installation, or $16,924 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Syracuse based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Syracuse homeowner can save about $13,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Syracuse
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,932 |
| 3 years | $-9,127 |
| 5 years | $-7,321 |
| 7 years | $-5,516 |
| 9 years | $-3,711 |
| 11 years | $-1,905 |
| 13 years | $-100 |
| 15 years | $1,705 |
| 17 years | $3,511 |
| 19 years | $5,316 |
| 21 years | $7,121 |
| 23 years | $8,927 |
| 25 years | $10,732 |
Top Solar Installers in Syracuse
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it involves extra effort and knowledge. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Solar companies provide key benefits that can help you get the most out of your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
Working with a licensed solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Syracuse
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Syracuse
For many Syracuse homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Syracuse, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 nearly $3,650. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Syracuse, where sunlight isn’t as 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
Most solar installers in Syracuse offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in Syracuse, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and decide on the company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $4,120 | 19.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $5,902 | 19.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $7,888 | 19.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $10,079 | 18.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $12,474 | 18.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $15,074 | 18.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $17,878 | 17.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $20,886 | 17.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose greatly influences your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the endurance of your solar panels, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Syracuse, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Syracuse?
The average cost of solar panels in Syracuse 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 type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Syracuse?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Syracuse?
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 offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Syracuse?
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 higher amount 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.