Connecticut Solar Panels
Pricing & Installation Data

Find out if solar panels are right for your home in Connecticut.

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Connecticut

Solar Panels in Connecticut

Connecticut, while not the sunniest state, has still been making solar steps toward a renewable future. Major projects in the state include the Quinebaug Solar project in Canterbury, which came online in 2021 with a capacity of 63.4 MW, which is powering over 10,000 homes. The Fusion Solar Center in Baltic, completed in 2018 with a capacity of 31.2 MW is capable of powering nearly 5,000 homes. 

In total, Connecticut has installed solar infrastructure capable of producing 1,307 MW, powering 196,805 homes and contributing to a national ranking improvement from 28th in 2022 to 22nd in the first quarter of 2023. 

Cost of Solar in Connecticut

The average price for a home solar panel system in Connecticut is $19,320 for a 6kW system or about $3.22 per watt. Systems will vary depending on the solar installation company the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system. When shopping for solar panels you should consider getting multiple quotes from various installers.

Average Cost
6 kW System
Average Cost
10 kW System
Estimated
Tax Credit
(10 kW System)
Average
Cost/Watt
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Connecticut$16,080$26,800$8,040$2.68
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Most Costly State(Michigan)$22,680$37,800$11,340$3.78
Least Costly State(Arizona)$14,640$24,400$7,320$2.44

Costs by Solar System Size in Connecticut

For most, the ideal solar system size is the sweet spot between price and capacity. The goal is to generate enough electricity to cover your home's demand while keeping overall costs low as possible.

I.E. Get the best bang for your buck.

System SizeSystem CostCost After Federal Tax Credit
5 kW$13,400$8,785
6 kW$16,080$10,542
7 kW$18,760$12,299
8 kW$21,440$14,056
10 kW$26,800$17,570

Pros and Cons of Solar in Connecticut

Regrettably, solar energy isn't without its flaws. Our aim is to help you make the most informed choice for your situation. That's why we've gathered a list of advantages and disadvantages you might consider when analyzing a solar installation in your home state. We recommend considering all aspects.

Your perspective is important, and what you perceive as a downside might just overshadow the numerous benefits for you. We're here to lay out the pros and cons, empowering you to form your own judgment.

Connecticut Solar Pros

  • Reduce or eliminate electric bills
  • Energy independence from the grid
  • Reduce your carbon footprint
  • Sales tax exemption for solar
  • Property tax exemption for solar
  • Net metering available but not available everywhere
  • Higher utility costs could bring more savings
  • Increase home value (4.1% on average)
  • Connecticut ranks in the top half nationally in solar in the U.S. in Q1 2023

Connecticut Solar Cons

  • Not viable for all roofs or homes
  • Installation costs
  • Financial liability

EnergyBot's Take

While Connecticut is not the sunniest state and the cost of solar is slightly higher than the US average there is still potential for it to be financially viable for a lot of residents. 

First of all, the cost of electricity is significantly higher than the country’s average. The average monthly electricity bill is around $130, CT is at about $160. This means the dollar per power residents get back for their solar system with net metering will be higher. This may make up for not having sun all the time. Then, the additional state incentives along with the federal tax credit will help reduce the cost even further.

Things like your specific financial situation, roof structure, and house location will still sway a decision. Additionally, if you prioritize energy independence and renewable energy, other pros could sway in the other direction.

Consider getting an energy analysis from a local solar installer.

If you are on the fence you can use this tool to get an accurate cost breakdown for your home based on your historical energy usage.

Leasing vs Buying Solar Panels in Connecticut

There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Connecticut. Your goals and financial situation will dictate which option is best for you.

Cash Purchase

The most straightforward option. You pay upfront for the entire cost of the rooftop solar system. No interest, and fewer headaches, but many people are hesitant about spending several tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Solar Loan

The most common method for buying solar systems. Like many other types of large purchases, you can finance your solar system through a bank or solar loan provider.

This sounds great, and many other solar loan salespeople will leverage the low payment to justify the costs. You will likely hear something like "You pay $250 a month on your electric bill, with a solar loan you will pay $200 and have free electricity."

Do your due diligence before you sign on the dotted line. There are many horror stories of variable loan terms, ballooning interest rates, and harsh missed payment penalties.

Solar Lease

Leasing solar panels generally involves less money out of pocket upfront. But, it's important to note - you do not own your solar energy system. You essentially renting the solar system. A solar provider will install the equipment and charge you a fixed monthly fee.

Most solar lease contracts last for a couple of decades, during which time the provider will keep an eye on the system's hardware and performance. At the end of your lease, you can choose to:

  • Renew your lease agreement
  • Purchase the system
  • End your lease agreement

Solar leases can be complicated. Not all are bad, but in many cases the lease terms in not in favor of the buyer. Before you decide on a solar lease make sure to read your contract thoroughly. If you don't understand something, ask an expert.

Power Purchase Agreements

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a solar company will design and install a solar system on your home or business with little or no cost upfront. Instead of paying a monthly fee like a lease, the agreement includes a fixed price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

For example, you agree to pay $0.12 per kWh of electricity generated for the next 20 years. The solar company will install and maintain your system and sell the power back to you that you use. They may also collect payment for any additional energy they put back into the grid.

Just like a lease, you do not own the panels. When the contract is up, they will either be removed or your contract may have other terms for you to buy or renew your power purchase agreement.

Power purchase agreements can be complicated. Before you sign make sure you review the contract and if possible have an expert in power purchase agreements review the details.

Connecticut Solar Incentives

In addition to the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. 

The state government has exempted solar panel systems from sales and property taxes, which means homeowners can save 6.35% on project costs immediately, and avoid increased property taxes due to the added value from the solar systems. To avail the sales tax exemption, homeowners need to present Form CERT-140 at the time of purchase. Moreover, the Connecticut Green Bank offers Smart-E loans with an APR ranging from 4.49% to 6.99%, facilitating up to $40,000 for home energy efficiency upgrades, including solar panel installations.

This table shows the available incentives in Connecticut. But, just because you don't see it here doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Check with your local utility for other potential incentives.

Name State Category Type
Alternative Fueled Vehicle Charging Station Credit CT Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Connecticut Clean Energy Fund CT Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
Renewables Portfolio Standard CT Regulatory Policy Renewables Portfolio Standard
Energy Conservation Loan CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Alternative Fuel Vehicles and Associated Equipment CT Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
Fuel Mix and Emissions Disclosure CT Regulatory Policy Generation Disclosure
Residential Renewable Energy Solutions CT Regulatory Policy Net Metering
CCEF - Commercial, Industrial, Institutional PV Grant Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
Solar and Wind Contractor Licensing CT Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Contractor Licensing
CCEF - Renewable Energy Projects in Pre-Development Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
CCEF - Project 150 Initiative CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
New Energy Technology Program CT Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Interconnection Standards CT Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Connecticut Green Power Purchase Plan CT Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
CEFIA - Residential Solar PV Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Operational Demonstration Program CT Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Energy-Efficient Products CT Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
On-Site Renewable DG Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
The United Illuminating Company - Small Business Energy Advantage Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
The United Illuminating Company - Energy Star Incentives Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
The United Illuminating Company - Energy Conscious Blueprint Grant Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
The United Illuminating Company - Energy Conscious Blueprint Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
The United Illuminating Company - Cool Choice Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
The United Illuminating Company - Energy Opportunities Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Energy Opportunities Efficiency Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebates CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Small Business Energy Advantage Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Express Rebate Programs CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Small Industrial and Commercial Energy Efficiency Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Operation and Maintenance Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Smart-E loans CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Connecticut Appliance and Equipment Energy Efficiency Standards CT Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Connecticut Clean Energy Communities CT Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
DPUC - Capital Grants for Customer-Side Distributed Resources CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low-Interest Loans for Customer-Side Distributed Resources CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Groton Utilities - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Groton Utilities - Commercial & Industrial Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Efficiency Fund CT Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
Energy Efficiency Requirements for State Government CT Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Building Energy Code CT Regulatory Policy Building Energy Code
Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Solar and Geothermal Systems CT Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
Connecticut Light & Power - Summer Saver Rewards CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Mass Energy - Renewable Energy Certificate Incentive CT Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
CCEF - Affordable Housing Initiative Solar PV Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
CT Solar Lease CT Financial Incentive Leasing Program
Norwich Public Utilities - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Norwich Public Utilities - Zero Percent Financing Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Furnace and Boiler Replacement Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
CL&P - Residential Heating and Cooling Rebates CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Efficiency Fund (Electric) - Residential Heating and Cooling Rebates CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
New Generation Energy - Community Solar Lending Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Solar Thermal Incentive Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Geothermal Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut - Residential Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebates CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Residential New Construction Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
The United Illuminating Company - Residential New Construction Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Southern Connecticut Gas - Custom Commercial Energy Efficiency Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Natural Gas - Cooking and Water Heating Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
(Gas) Commercial and Industrial Gas Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
(Electric and Gas ) Home Energy Solutions Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light and Power (Electric) - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
(Electric and Gas) Residential New Construction Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
(Electric) Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Programs CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Efficiency Fund (Electric) - Commercial New Construction Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Small Business Energy Advantage Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Connecticut Light & Power - Energy Conscious Blueprint Grant Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
CCEF - ARRA Commercial Solar PV Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
Renewable Portfolio Standards - Energy Efficiency Component CT Regulatory Policy Energy Efficiency Resource Standard
Energy Efficiency Fund (Electric and Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Financing CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Sales and Use Taxes for Items Used in Renewable Energy Industries CT Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Litchfield Hills Region - Business Energy Efficiency Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Norwich Public Utilities (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Efficiency Fund (Gas) - Home Energy Solutions and Performance Programs CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Small Business Energy Advantage Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
CCEF - Alpha Program CT Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Local Option - Building Permit Fee Waivers for Renewable Energy Projects CT Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Residential Solar Investment Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Exemption from Electric Generation Tax CT Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
The United Illuminating Company - ZREC and LREC Long Term Contracts CT Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Connecticut Light & Power - ZREC and LREC Long Term Contracts CT Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Combined Heat and Power Grant Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
Local Option - Commercial PACE Financing CT Financial Incentive PACE Financing
Connecticut Light & Power - Small ZREC Tariff CT Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
The United Illuminating Company - Small ZREC Tariff CT Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
CT Solar Loan CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Local Option - Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems CT Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Clean Energy On-Bill Financing CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Combined Heat and Power Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
The United Illuminating Company - Small ZREC Tariff CT Financial Incentive Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Eversource - Small ZREC Tariff CT Financial Incentive Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Eversource - ZREC and LREC Long Term Contracts CT Financial Incentive Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
The United Illuminating Company - ZREC and LREC Long Term Contracts CT Financial Incentive Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Multifamily Energy Conservation Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Small Business & Municipal Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energize Connecticut Residential and Commercial Rebates CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
(Electric and Gas) Residential Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Multifamily Sherpa Pre-Development Energy Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Low-Income Multifamily Energy Loan Program CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
Zero Interest Energy Efficiency Loan Program (Gas and Electric) CT Financial Incentive Loan Program
VW Settlement Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment Grants CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
Connecticut Hydrogen and Electric Automobile Purchase Rebate (CHEAPR) CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Connecticut Green Energy Building Solutions CT Financial Incentive Green Building Incentive
Groton Utilities - Electric Vehicle Rebate Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Diesel Emissions Mitigation Program CT Financial Incentive Grant Program
Energy Storage Target CT Regulatory Policy Energy Storage Target
Non-Residential Renewable Energy Solutions CT Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Shared Clean Energy Facility (SCEF) Program CT Regulatory Policy Community Solar Rules
Energy Storage Goal CT Regulatory Policy Energy Storage Target
Energy Storage Solutions Program CT Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit

Property Tax Exemption: Solar energy systems installed on residential properties are 100% exempt from property taxes for the duration of their operational life.

Sales Tax Exemption: Solar energy equipment and installation services are exempt from state sales tax in Connecticut.

Green Bank Programs: The Connecticut Green Bank offers various programs to help finance solar installations, including low-interest loans and lease options.

Solar for All Program: This program, run by the Connecticut Green Bank, offers no-cost solar installations for income-eligible homeowners to help reduce their electricity costs.

Connecticut Solar Companies

There are hundreds of solar companies in Connecticut. From solar installers to solar loan providers, and manufacturers. Each is a piece of the puzzle to help you get outfitted with solar panels.

To make things simple, EnergyBot works directly with 3 of the largest solar companies to give you a comprehensive view of the market.

The solar companies we partner with:

  • Project Solar - A nationwide provider of solar panel systems that has a non-sales-oriented approach to building your system. They build your system from their central office and send a local company to complete the solar panel installation.
  • EnergySage - The largest online solar installation network. They work with thousands of installers to help you find the perfect solar system for your home. With thousands of successful solar installations, they can give you a range of bids and pricing options.
  • Tesla - Brains behind some of the most cutting-edge technology in the automotive industry, Tesla also offers sleek and powerful solar systems and battery systems.

We believe comparing these three names in the solar industry will give you the info you need to decide if solar panels are right for you.

Before You Install Solar Panels

Just because solar is a popular discussion right now, doesn’t mean it makes sense for everyone. It is still a large and expensive decision. Installing solar has great financial and environmental benefits but it won’t feel beneficial if you run into issues. Along with studying a 20-year cost comparison for your home, read some more tips to keep in mind when mulling over your decision on your installer, system design, and financial plan.

  • What are the long-term savings and payback period for installing a solar panel system?
  • How will installing solar panels impact my home's value?
  • What is the system’s Return on Investment (ROI)?
  • Are there any specific design or aesthetic considerations for solar panel installation?
  • How do I weigh the environmental benefits against the costs of installation?
  • What are the specific terms and conditions for the installer?

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Wins

In the solar industry, the road to sustainability is not without its challenges. In Connecticut’s solar news, there is really a mixed bag of events. 

One pressing issue is the environmental impact of solar farm locations. While solar energy is a cleaner alternative, the choice of location can have unintended consequences, such as endangering local wildlife habitats and contaminating water. Putting in a structure that diverts water run off into different locations can leave the streams to pick up more than it would otherwise be just raining onto the ground. On the surface, where abandoned farmland seem to be a great location for new renewable energy, there may be more challenges as you dig deeper. These dilemmas are exemplified in a recent article where a developer's choice of land for a new solar farm has sparked environmental concerns.

Another challenge facing the industry is community acceptance, particularly in the form of noise complaints, which may come as a surprise to many. Solar farms as opposed to smaller solar systems, can generate some noise from inverters and transformers. While the solar panels themselves don’t have moving parts to make noise, inverters and transformers do have some internal moving parts and as they are scaled up become more audible. This issue is highlighted in an article detailing how residents are raising concerns over the noise levels emanating from a nearby solar farm.

Fortunately, not everyone is complaining about solar in Connecticut. Companies like Dynamic Energy are making strides in sustainability by integrating battery storage systems into their solar farms. Battery integration allows users to optimize energy use by providing energy flexibility, resilience, and increased usage efficiency. 

Why Trust EnergyBot

We have helped thousands of customers find electricity plans for their home or business. And we are pretty darn good at it, with over 1,000 5-Star reviews we know how to help you stay powered up.

Now using the same one-of-kind technology and platform we are helping consumers in Connecticut decide if solar is right for them. You will notice that sometimes our numbers make solar look less attractive. That's not by accident. We believe you should have full transparency during the solar purchasing process.

We aren't here to sell you something. We are here to help you make the best energy decision for your home or business.

Connecticut Solar FAQs

The cost of solar panel installation in Connecticut can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the size and type of the system, the complexity of the installation, your solar installer, and the specific location. However, the average cost of solar panels in the U.S. was about $3.13 per watt, before any incentives or tax credits.

A typical residential solar system is usually around 8 kilowatts (8,000 watts), but varies based on energy use and the size of the house. The US average cost for a 6 kW system is $18,771 and the US average cost for a 10 kW system is $31,285, before incentives. The average price for a home solar panel system in Connecticut is $19,320 for a 6kW system or about or about $3.22 per watt.

The number of solar panels you would need depends on a variety of factors such as:

  1. Your home's energy consumption: The first step is to calculate your household's energy use. You can do this by looking at your electricity bills to see how much electricity you use in a year, usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The average U.S. home uses around 10,400 kWh per year, but this can vary widely based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your appliances, and your personal habits.
  2. The amount of sunlight your location receives: This can vary depending on where you live. For example, if you live in a place that has many sunny days like Arizona, you might require fewer solar panels compared to someone living in a place with less sunlight like Seattle.
  3. The efficiency of the solar panels: Not all solar panels are created equal. Some panels can convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently than others. On average, residential solar panels have an efficiency rating between 15-20%. The higher the efficiency, the fewer panels you would likely need to meet your energy needs.
  4. The size of the solar panels: Solar panels also come in different sizes. A common size for residential use is roughly 65 inches by 39 inches. Each panel typically produces around 250 to 400 watts of power, but this can vary.

To give you a rough estimate, let's say you live in a location that receives about 5 hours of peak sunlight per day, your solar panels have an efficiency of 20%, and each panel has a power rating of 300 watts. If your home uses about 10,400 kWh per year, you would divide this by 365 to get your daily energy use (about 28.5 kWh). You would then divide this by the hours of peak sunlight (5 hours), to get your required power output per hour (about 5.7 kW). If each solar panel produces 300 watts (or 0.3 kW), you would divide 5.7 kW by 0.3 to get the number of solar panels you need, which would be about 19 panels.

  • Lower Electricity Bills:
    Once your solar panels are installed, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your reliance on the grid, which can lower your monthly bills.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    Solar energy is clean and renewable, so using it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants.
  • Increased Home Value:
    Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Long-Term Savings:
    While the upfront cost of installing solar energy systems can be high, they can pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills and other savings.
  • Location:
    Homes in areas with lots of sunlight are generally better candidates for solar panels. If your home is shaded or doesn't receive much sunlight, it may not be the best choice.
  • Roof Orientation:
    Ideally, your roof should be facing south to get the most sunlight throughout the day.
  • Roof Condition:
    Your roof should be in good condition and able to support the weight of the solar panels. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, it's best to take care of that before your solar installation.

The installation process for solar panels can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.

Your installer should be able to give you an estimated timeline based on your specific project.

Solar panels generally require very little maintenance. However, it's a good idea to have them inspected every few years to ensure they are working properly and to clean off any debris or dirt that may have accumulated on the panels. Most solar panel installers offer maintenance services for an additional fee.

Some skilled DIYers may be able to save some solar installation costs by installing solar equipment themselves. But, any solar installation will require a foundational knowledge of wiring and electricity. There's is a lot that can go wrong, posing a potentially deadly hazard.

Before you try to DIY your system we would recommend getting a quote from a solar installer. You may find that the labor costs of your install is relatively small compared to the cost of the solar equipment itself.

There are two main types of solar panels: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. There are pros and cons to both. Either type can produce enough solar power for your home. We recommend getting a recommendation from a solar installer for your home. Depending on your budget, location, and other factors they can recommend the most efficient solar panels for your home. 

Connecticut, getting a solar permit is pretty straightforward but can vary depending on your local jurisdiction. 

Typically, you'll need to submit a permit application to your local building department, which usually includes site plans and system specs. Some cities have streamlined this process to encourage solar adoption. It's always a good idea to consult your local building department for the nitty-gritty details like required documentation and fees. 

If you're working with a solar installation company, they often handle the permitting process for you.

Bridgeport

New Haven

Stamford

Hartford