Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bridgeport, CT (2024 Update)
- Bridgeport Solar Installation Cost: $11,749
- 25-Year Savings: $24,092
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bridgeport
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Bridgeport.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Bridgeport, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 4.5-kW system would cost about $11,749 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Despite the large upfront cost, the average Bridgeport homeowner can save around $28,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Bridgeport that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Bridgeport
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,559 |
| 3 years | $-5,179 |
| 5 years | $-798 |
| 7 years | $3,582 |
| 9 years | $7,962 |
| 11 years | $12,342 |
| 13 years | $16,722 |
| 15 years | $21,103 |
| 17 years | $25,483 |
| 19 years | $29,863 |
| 21 years | $34,243 |
| 23 years | $38,624 |
| 25 years | $43,004 |
Top Solar Installers in Bridgeport
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your location and energy usage, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Bridgeport
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bridgeport
For many Bridgeport homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Bridgeport, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Bridgeport, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Bridgeport have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panels can influence how much it costs. Bridgeport’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies 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 with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that has the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fits within 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 | $3.90 | $16,380 | $27,676 | 9.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.83 | $21,420 | $37,322 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.75 | $26,250 | $47,177 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,870 | $57,242 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.60 | $35,280 | $67,518 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,480 | $78,003 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.45 | $43,470 | $88,698 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,250 | $99,604 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering 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 Bridgeport, CT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Bridgeport?
The average cost of solar panels in Bridgeport is about $18,750 for a 5-kW system and $37,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Bridgeport?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Bridgeport. However, you may still be able to get 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 solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
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 $1,468.54 per year.
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 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.