How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in New Hampshire?
Installing solar on a residential home can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, although individual costs vary. A typical solar power system size in New Hampshire is 6.5 kilowatts (kilowatts). On average, New Hampshire residents pay $18,916 for their solar system, excluding incentives and tax credits.
Average cost by system size in New Hampshire
| 4 kilowatts | 5 kilowatts | 6 kilowatts | 7 kilowatts | 8 kilowatts | 9 kilowatts | 10 kilowatts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before the federal tax credit | 11,640 USD | US$14,550 | 17,460 USD | 20,370 USD | 23,280 USD | 26,190 USD | 29,100 USD |
| After the federal tax credit | 8148 USD | 10,185 USD | 12,222 US dollars | 14,259 USD | 16,296 USD | 18,333 US dollars | 20,370 USD |
| Estimated size of the house | 1200 square feet | 1400 square feet | 1600 square feet | 1800 square feet | 2000 square feet | 2200 square feet | 2400 square feet |
Source: Ecowatch
Are solar panels worth it in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire residents have had mixed experiences with solar power. For some, switching to solar is worth the savings or environmental benefits. Seasonal fluctuations in energy production can be a problem for others.
New Hampshire receives an average of 3 to 3.5 hours of maximum sunlight per day.
Edward, from Newmarket, told us he turned to solar to help protect the environment: “We're still putting carbon into the atmosphere and we're all going to pay the price. So, we felt that solar energy is the right option. Since switching to solar, Edward has only paid about $13 a month, “and that's the grid connection fee. That's why we don't pay anything" for electricity."
Similarly, after installing a solar panel, Robert of Litchfield receives an Eversource electric bill of just $12.95 per month.
Robert, of Concord, said his system works great in the summer, "but when winter came, I didn't realize the number of kilowatts I was getting per day would drop so much." However, he is satisfied with the system as a whole.
At the very least, it's worth considering whether your home is a good candidate for solar. Ideal homes have plenty of south-facing roof space and are unencumbered by trees. Most solar companies offer a free consultation where you can get a quote on total costs and learn about potential savings.
"IS IT NOT SAFE YET?" Advantages and disadvantages of solar energy
Cost Factors for Solar Energy in New Hampshire
Many people think that the cost of a solar system comes down to the cost of the solar panels, but that's not all. You'll need to factor in other equipment, necessary roof repairs, permit costs, and more.
The size of your system
The size of your system is a big factor in the total amount you pay. Not surprisingly, the smaller your system, the less you pay.
You can easily determine the size of the system you need. First, determine how much electricity you used last year in kilowatt-hours (kWh). You will find this information through the online panel of your electricity bill.
Divide the annual kWh by 1200 to find the size system you need. For example, a typical home in New Hampshire uses 7,572 kWh per year. Using this formula, a typical home would need a 6 kW system.
» THE DIFFERENCE IN WATTS? kW vs. kWh
Cost of solar equipment.
When it comes to solar equipment, let's start with the panels. Generally, the installation price will vary depending on the scale of your system and the efficiency of the panels you choose. The efficiency of solar panels refers to their ability to efficiently convert sunlight into electrical energy. Higher efficiency means you need fewer panels, which can lower the overall cost.
Solar panels are usually billed per watt. "Per watt" tells you how much you pay for each watt of electrical energy your solar panels can produce. In New Hampshire, the average cost is $2.91.
Other equipment costs should be considered. Below are some average costs you can expect for panels and other equipment:
Installation of solar panels
Solar installation is usually included when you buy from a large solar company. Otherwise, ask to compare prices between companies.
Permit cost
Each city has regulations regarding the permits required for solar panels. For example, Greenville charges 1.5% of the total cost (total labor and materials).
You may be exempt from licensing if you live out of town, but don't assume you are. Some solar companies will get all the permits for you. Find out before you sign the contract.
The condition of your roof
Before installing the system, a roof inspection is mandatory. Why worry about your roof? Solar panels should last 25 to 30 years, so your roof should last that long. Otherwise, you'll have to pay to remove the panels, repair the roof, and reinstall the solar panels later. Avoid additional costs and frustration by preparing your roof for solar panels.
» DO YOU NEED: To replace your roof before going solar?
Solar Incentives, Tax Credits and Rebates in New Hampshire
The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a critical factor in lowering the cost of solar energy in New Hampshire. If you install a home solar system before the end of 2032, you will receive a federal tax credit of 30% of the total cost of the system, including equipment, labor and permits. The rate on loans will decrease to 26% in 2033 and to 22% in 2034.
The average value of the federal solar investment tax credit in New Hampshire in 2023 is $5,675.
New Hampshire also offers other incentives. Some municipalities offer a property tax exemption, and the amount of the exemption varies by city. In addition, the government provides annual subsidies to help low-income families purchase solar energy systems.
» DISCOVER: Solar incentives in New Hampshire
Compare New Hampshire Solar Panel Installation Companies
Compare the most popular solar companies in New Hampshire below. To learn more, read our guide to finding the best solar companies.
| power of the sun | tan | Tesla's energy | ShopSolar | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary |  | power of the sun | Read reviews | Customer rating 2,192 reviews 2,192 reviews | Free quote | Payment options Cash, loan, lease, PPA | Guarantee 25 years old |
| Elementary |  | tan | Read reviews | Customer rating | Free quote | Payment options Cash, loan, lease, PPA | Guarantee 25 years old |
| Elementary |  | Tesla's energy | Read reviews | Customer rating 513 reviews513 reviews | Free quote | Payment options money loan | Guarantee 10 - 25 years |
| Elementary |  | ShopSolar | Read reviews | Customer rating 120 reviews 120 reviews | Free quote | Payment options money loan | Guarantee Vary |
Frequently asked questions
How are solar costs changing in New Hampshire?
According to the Solar Energy Association, the cost of solar power in New Hampshire has fallen 42 percent over the past 10 years.
» FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are They Really Free?
Can I get free solar panels in New Hampshire?
How can I pay for solar panels?
How much can I save with solar panels?
When paying cash, the average 25-year solar savings in New Hampshire is $28,409. There is a common misconception that solar panels always save money on your monthly electricity bills, but this is not always the case.
The good news is that people who still have bills after going solar are paying much less than before. According to EnergySage, you can expect a 77% to 104% reduction in your energy bills.
» DISCOVER: Where solar energy savings are most effective
How does net metering work in New Hampshire?
Without a solar panel to store the excess energy generated by your system, you can still put it to good use by selling it to your local energy supplier. This is called net accounting.
In New Hampshire, several electric providers, such as New Hampshire Electric Cooperative, Eversource, Liberty and Unitil, offer net metering programs. The compensation comes in the form of a credit on your next monthly electricity bill. Your remaining credit can be converted to cash at the end of the year.
» COMPARISON: The best solar monitoring systems
Is it cheaper to install solar panels yourself?
It's potentially cheaper to do it yourself, but it's also difficult and dangerous if you don't know what you're doing, especially for a large residential project. Installing solar panels involves potential height, electrical and fire hazards.
» Do-it-yourself solar panels: advantages and disadvantages
Conclusion
New Hampshire is one of the greenest states and one of the easiest to go solar. In addition to the relatively low cost of solar energy, the government offers a number of incentives to make solar energy even cheaper. Over 25 years, users will save an average of $28,409.
The Cost of Solar Energy: New Hampshire and Neighboring States
| Original cost* | Value of ICT (30%) | Average cost per watt | Typical system size | Recovery period** | Estimated net savings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | 18,916 USD | 5675 USD | 2.91 USD | 6.5 kW | 9 years old | 28,409 USD |
| Maine | US$16,980 | 5094 US dollars | 2.83 US dollars | 5.7 kW | 10 years | US$25,880 |
| Vermont | 17,220 USD | 5166 USD | 2.87 US dollars | 6 kilowatts | 9 years old | 26,468 USD |
| Massachusetts | 19,110 USD | 5733 US dollars | 2.94 US dollars | 6.5 kW | 8 years old | 33,013 USD |
*Before the Federal Solar Investment Tax (CTI) deduction; **With full prepayment
Sources of articles
- EcoWatch, "How much does solar cost in New Hampshire?" » Checked November 6, 2023
- Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, "Homeowner's Guide to the Federal Solar Tax Credit." Retrieved November 6, 2023
- Solar Energy Industry Association, New Hampshire. Retrieved November 6, 2023
- DSIRE, "New Hampshire Programs." Retrieved November 6, 2023
- EnergySage, "New Hampshire Solar Panels: Local Pricing and Installation Data." » Checked November 6, 2023
How to pay for solar panels in New Hampshire
