Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rumson, NJ (2024 Update)

  • Rumson Solar Installation Cost: $11,170
  • 25-Year Savings: $7,419
  • Payback Period: 17.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 20, 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 Rumson

Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Rumson.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Rumson generally cost about 4.Because a 4.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Rumson, the average price of going solar will be about $11,170 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Rumson depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Despite the large upfront cost, the average Rumson homeowner can save about $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.

Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Rumson for a customized quote.

Solar savings over time in Rumson

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-10,111
3 years$-7,992
5 years$-5,874
7 years$-3,755
9 years$-1,637
11 years$481
13 years$2,600
15 years$4,718
17 years$6,837
19 years$8,955
21 years$11,073
23 years$13,192
25 years$15,310

Top Solar Installers in Rumson

Many homeowners decide to use a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Companies can also offer access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for your home.

You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

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

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

See all of the solar companies in Rumson

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rumson

Though the average cost of a solar system in Rumson is $11,170, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Rumson, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily 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 $3,530 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Rumson to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time because of interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Rumson, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Rumson know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of 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 end up saving you more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.67$15,419$6,06217.9 years
8 kW$3.60$20,163$8,47817.6 years
10 kW$3.53$24,710$11,09217.3 years
12 kW$3.46$29,059$13,90316.9 years
14 kW$3.39$33,210$16,91216.6 years
16 kW$3.32$37,164$20,11916.2 years
18 kW$3.25$40,920$23,52415.9 years
20 kW$3.18$44,478$27,12615.5 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you choose.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.

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

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0
  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

EcoWatch's Rumson, NJ Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Rumson?

The average cost of solar panels in Rumson 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 model 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 Rumson?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Rumson?

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 utility bills.

How long do solar panels last in Rumson?

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.