Solar Panel Cost Guide in Valley Stream, NY (2024 Update)
- Valley Stream Solar Installation Cost: $9,833
- 25-Year Savings: $19,908
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Valley Stream
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Valley Stream.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Valley Stream, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Valley Stream is around 3.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,833 for a solar installation, or $14,061 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Valley Stream homeowner can save about $28,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Valley Stream, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Valley Stream
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,071 |
| 3 years | $-4,548 |
| 5 years | $-1,025 |
| 7 years | $2,498 |
| 9 years | $6,022 |
| 11 years | $9,545 |
| 13 years | $13,068 |
| 15 years | $16,591 |
| 17 years | $20,114 |
| 19 years | $23,637 |
| 21 years | $27,160 |
| 23 years | $30,684 |
| 25 years | $34,207 |
Top Solar Installers in Valley Stream
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners opt to use a solar installer since handling can be a challenging project. Another great thing about going with a reputable solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- 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 Valley Stream
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Valley Stream
For many Valley Stream homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Valley Stream, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Valley Stream, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,650 for each additional kilowatt you need.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Valley Stream average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Valley Stream, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Valley Stream know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $27,486 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.72 | $20,849 | $37,056 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.65 | $25,550 | $46,832 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.58 | $30,047 | $56,811 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.50 | $34,339 | $66,995 | 8.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.43 | $38,427 | $77,383 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.36 | $42,311 | $87,976 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.29 | $45,990 | $98,773 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your 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 challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- 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.
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
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Valley Stream, NY Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Valley Stream?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,250 for a 5-kW system and $36,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Valley Stream?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Valley Stream, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,447.63 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.