How much do solar panels cost in Connecticut?
Installing solar panels on residential buildings can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, although individual costs may vary depending on energy needs and system size. Systems are usually measured in kilowatts (kW), which indicates the amount of energy produced by the system. The average system size in Connecticut is 7.5 kW.
To figure out how much you need, first look at how many kilowatt hours (kWh) you used on your electricity bill last year. Divide this number by 1200. This will be approximately the size of the system you need. For example, your home used 30,000 kWh last year. If you use it once an hour, you need a 25 kW system.
What is the difference between KW and kWh ?
Average system size in Connecticut
| 5kW | 6kW | 7kW | 8kW | 9kW | 10 kilowatts | 11kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| After federal tax credits | 9800 dollars | 11760 dollars | 13720 dollars | 15680 dollars | 17640 dollars | 19600 dollars | $21,560 |
| Before federal tax credits | $14,000 | 16800 dollars | 19600 dollars | $22,400 | $25,200 | $28,000 | $30,800 |
| House size (square meters) | 1600 | 1800 | 2000 | 2200: | 2400: | 2600 | 2800 |
Source: EcoWatch
Are solar panels worth using in Connecticut?
Installing solar panels can result in long-term electricity savings for Connecticut homeowners. Many solar consumers we spoke with saw their monthly bills drop significantly after switching to solar energy.
Robert, who lives in Oxford, said he saved about $100 in three months. Like Walcott, Chris and Wayne in Hebron were happy to see their electric bills decrease after switching to solar energy.
However, some Sunlight customers are advised to keep a few things in mind:
- Installation day can be noisy with any construction, so consider transporting pets during the day.
- Ice on panels may temporarily reduce performance until removed or melted.
- It may take a year or two for savings from solar panels to pay off the cost of a loan or solar installation.
However, once your solar loan is paid off, the savings can be significant. Neil paid $400 a month for electricity in East Haven. Simply paying off a $300 solar loan will save you $100 a month. Once you pay off your loan, your energy costs will be $0.
For Michael, who lives in a 5,000-square-foot home in Somers, his annual electric bill has dropped from $4,000 to about $100. He was especially happy to see summer air conditioning drop from $800 to $19 in the first calendar year.
Other Connecticut homeowners, like Brian in the Hamptons, have turned to solar energy to achieve energy independence, reduce grid dependency and benefit the environment, ultimately saving on utility bills.
Generally, many solar panel owners in Connecticut find that the system will pay for itself in 5 to 10 years through lower electric bills and tax benefits. After that, you get almost all the electricity produced by the sun. As electricity prices continue to rise, solar energy is becoming a smarter investment for Connecticut residents.
Cost Factors for Solar Energy in Connecticut
"How much will it cost me?"
The answer is not as simple as you might think. The cost of your solar panel system depends on many factors, including the size of the system you need, the quality of the panels you choose, and the age of your roof.
Equipment costs
Most solar equipment costs will depend on what you pay for the solar panels. The number of solar panels needed depends on the amount of energy needed and the efficiency of the panels. Solar panel efficiency is a measure of the amount of electricity produced by the panel.
" Read more. How many solar panels do I need for my home?
The more efficient the solar panels you buy, the fewer panels you will need. Although more efficient panels cost a little more, you will save money by purchasing fewer panels. Remember that Connecticut only gets 2.5-3.5 hours of average speed. Regardless of the efficiency of your panels, you can purchase more to make up for the lack of sunlight and make the most of the sunny hours.
Plus, if beauty is important to you, you can spend more. For example, Angela of Branford thought her panels would be black, but they weren't. "There will be a black surcharge. We've decided it's not worth spending the extra money to get it."
Adding solar panels and monitoring systems will incur additional costs. Solar panels cost between $7,000 and $18,000.
The condition of your roof
Solar panels are large and heavy, so your roof must be strong enough to resist. Before installing panels, it's a good idea to have your roof inspected by a professional.
However, it's not just about keeping the panels up. Your roof should go the distance. Solar panels are there for a long period of 25-30 years. Your roof should only last so long.
Otherwise, you'll have to deal with the added expense of removing the panels when it's time to repair the roof. Before installing a flat roof, make sure the roof is strong and durable.
Moreover. Should you replace your roof before going solar?
How to pay?
If you can't afford the full upfront cost of a new solar system, there are options. Connecticut offers several solar loans to finance solar panels. Many have low interest rates with fixed rates. Another option is to rent solar equipment or purchase a PPA (power purchase agreement). Even if you don't have a solar system with any of these options, you can still benefit from solar energy.
Local permits and taxes
Cities in Connecticut have their own laws regarding available permits and zoning variances. This rate varies from city to city.
" Guide. Solar Panel Installation Guide
Solar Incentives, Tax Credits and Rebates in Connecticut
The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is the best financial incentive for solar energy in Connecticut. If you install a residential solar panel system before the end of 2032, you can deduct 30% of the cost of your system from your federal taxes. This includes equipment, labor and licenses. In 2033 the loan will be reduced to 26%, in 2034 to 22%.
The average ITC in Connecticut in 2023 is $6,300.
Connecticut offers tax credits and credits to help pay for solar energy. Most residents get a property tax exemption for the value a solar system adds to their home. You also get 100% sales tax exemption on solar devices.
If you need help with financing, you can apply for a low-interest loan. Low-income residents can even get an interest-free loan.
» Explore Connecticut solar panels
Compare solar installation companies in Connecticut
Compare the best solar companies in Connecticut below. For more information, read our guide to finding the best solar companies.
" Tips. advice for finding the best solar quotes
| Solar power | Walk in the sun | Tesla energy | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Principal: |  | Solar power | Read the reviews | Customer ratings 2,181 reviews 2,181 reviews | Free quote | Payment Options Cash, leasing, credit | Warranty 25 years (system) |
| Principal: |  | Walk in the sun | Read the reviews | Customer ratings 2647 reviews 2647 reviews | Free quote | Payment Options Cash, leasing, credit | Warranty Varies by system |
| Principal: |  | Tesla energy | Read the reviews | Customer ratings 504 reviews504 reviews | Free quote | Payment Options Cash, leasing, credit | Warranty 25 years (system) |
Frequent questions
How do solar costs stack up in Connecticut?
According to the Solar Energy Industry Association, the cost of solar panels in Connecticut has dropped 43 percent over the past 10 years.
How much can I save with solar panels?
When paying cash, the average 25-year solar savings in Connecticut is $42,705. Even if your system doesn't produce 100% of your home's electricity, you can make up for 79% to 107% of your electricity, according to EnergySage.
“Current accounts vary from year to year,” says Leigh, who lives in Glastonbury South. “In the summer we use air conditioning and the system doesn't cover it. We probably got about $300 in bills, which is $1,500 more than the first year we were here. And we won't pay any debt this year.” .
How does net metering work in Connecticut?
By 2022, Connecticut will replace net metering with the Home Renewable Energy Solutions program. The program provides a certain amount for the energy produced. You can pay annually or receive a monthly credit for your electricity (like the old net metering system). If you are considering going solar, your system must not exceed 20 kW to be eligible.
» Compare the best solar management systems
How many solar panels do I need for my home?
The number of solar panels you need depends on how much electricity your home uses, the efficiency and size of the panels. Connecticut's average monthly energy consumption in 2021 is 713 kWh.
Can you live off the grid with solar panels in Connecticut?
You should check your city's zoning laws and building codes. Some areas may have restrictions on off-grid systems, so make sure you are clear before making any plans.
On low sunny days, which are common in Connecticut, you need a way to store all the solar energy. This means investing in a high-quality battery system, which can often be expensive.
" Explore. What are grid-connected solar systems?
Can I get free solar panels in Connecticut?
There are no free solar panel programs in Connecticut. You can lease solar power or take out a PPA with a lot (or nothing) out of pocket.
Free solar panels. are they really free?
Finally
Regardless of your budget, solar energy is possible in Connecticut. Taking into account the federal solar investment tax credit, the average cost of installing solar panels is $14,700. It is approximately 12% cheaper than the national average, making it a more affordable option for Constitution residents.
The state offers low-interest loans and additional tax credits to make solar systems more affordable. Low-income residents can get a zero-interest loan to make solar payments easier. In total, you can expect an average repayment period of eight years and save around $42,705 over 25 years.
» Still not sure? Advantages and disadvantages of solar energy
Solar costs. Connecticut v. Neighboring states
| Initial value* | ITC rate (30%) | Normal system size | Average price per watt | Payment deadline** | Estimated net savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $21,000 | 6300 dollars | 7.5 kW | $2.80 | 8 years | 42705 dollars |
| Massachusetts | 19110 dollars | 5733 dollars | 6.5 kW | $2.94 | 8 years | 33013 dollars |
| Rhode Island | 17040 dollars | 5112 dollars | 6kW | $2.84 | 8 years | $34,519 |
| New York | 19183 dollars | $5,760 | 6.5 kW | $2.94 | 10 years | $24,387 |
| New Hampshire | 18916 dollars | $5,675 | 6.5 kW | $2.91 | 9 years | $28,409 |
*Up to the ITC federal tax credit; ** In case of advance payment of the entire amount
- Textual sources
- Consumer writers rely primarily on original research from government data, industry experts, and other authoritative publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- EcoWatch How much do solar panels cost in Connecticut? Retrieved September 11, 2023.
- Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, “Homeowners' Guide to Federal Tax Credits for Solar Photovoltaic.” Retrieved September 11, 2023.
- Solar Energy Industry Association, Connecticut Solar. Retrieved September 11, 2023.
- DSIRE, “Connecticut Solar Programs,” accessed September 11, 2023.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2021 Average Monthly Bill – Residential.” Retrieved September 11, 2023.
- Connecticut Utilities Regulatory Authority, Residential Renewable Energy Solutions Program. Retrieved September 11, 2023.
- EnergySage, “Connecticut Solar Panels. Local pricing and installation information". Retrieved September 11, 2023.
