Solar Panel Cost Guide in Watervliet, NY (2024 Update)
- Watervliet Solar Installation Cost: $11,379
- 25-Year Savings: $7,010
- Payback Period: 17.6 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 Watervliet
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Watervliet.
In Watervliet, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $11,379 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Watervliet homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Watervliet can save about $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Watervliet, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Watervliet
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,470 |
| 3 years | $-8,653 |
| 5 years | $-6,836 |
| 7 years | $-5,019 |
| 9 years | $-3,202 |
| 11 years | $-1,385 |
| 13 years | $432 |
| 15 years | $2,250 |
| 17 years | $4,067 |
| 19 years | $5,884 |
| 21 years | $7,701 |
| 23 years | $9,518 |
| 25 years | $11,335 |
Top Solar Installers in Watervliet
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels yourself can be hard. Because solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Watervliet
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Watervliet
The cost of installing a solar system in Watervliet can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar 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, you can expect your total to increase by around $3,650. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Watervliet homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you pick will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fit into 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 | $5,891 | 18.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $8,263 | 17.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $10,840 | 17.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $13,621 | 17.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $16,607 | 16.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $19,797 | 16.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $23,192 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $26,790 | 15.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Watervliet, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and 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 Watervliet, NY Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Watervliet?
The average cost of solar panels in Watervliet is about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real 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 Watervliet?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Watervliet. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Watervliet?
The majority of 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.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.