Delaware Solar Panels
Pricing & Installation Data

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

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Solar Panels in Delaware

Delaware may be small in size, but it's making significant strides in the solar energy sector. 

With large-scale projects like the 10 MW Dover Sun Park and the 12 MW Milford Solar Farm, the state is gradually increasing its solar capacity. 

As of 2020, Delaware had an impressive 150 MW of total installed solar capacity. 

Moreover, studies suggest that up to 19% of the state's electricity could be generated by rooftop solar panels. 

Read on to discover why solar energy is not just viable but also a financially smart choice in the First State.

Cost of Solar in Delaware

The average price for a home solar panel system in Delaware is $16,500 for a 6kW system or about $2.75 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
Delaware$26,520$44,200$13,260$4.42
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 Delaware

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$22,100$8,785
6 kW$26,520$10,542
7 kW$30,940$12,299
8 kW$35,360$14,056
10 kW$44,200$17,570

Pros and Cons of Solar in Delaware

As solar continues to expand across Delaware and the rest of the country, residents need to weigh their own pros and cons before making a decision.

While the state's significant projects like Dover Sun Park and Milford Solar Farm highlight the growing capacity and potential of solar power, understanding both the benefits and challenges is key. From financial incentives and environmental impacts to initial costs and industry size. Each factor plays a critical role in determining whether solar is the right choice for you. 

This section aims to provide a balanced perspective, empowering you to make an informed decision about embracing solar energy in Delaware

Delaware Solar Pros

  • Long Term Cost Savings: Reduce or eliminate electric bills
  • Grid Independence: Generate your own electricity (gain more independence with batteries)
  • Environmentally Conscious: Reduce your carbon footprint
  • Increased Asset Value: Increase home value (4.1% on average)
  • Financial Incentives: State-Wide Net Metering is available

Delaware Solar Cons

  • Roof Capability: Not viable for all roofs or homes
  • High Upfront Costs: Installation costs
  • Financial liability: unexpected factors could produce underperformance like shading from new construction, weather, or technical issues.
  • Fewer savings than other states
  • No statewide solar tax credit

EnergyBot's Take

No matter where you live, solar is not a bad idea. It all comes down to doing a proper budget overview for your specific situation. Solar is a viable option for generating your own electricity and doing your part for climate change.

When comparing solar in Delaware to other states, the state may not have as much sun, incentives, or installers. However, that doesn’t mean you still can’t get long term savings from this investment. 

On average, solar panel efficiency lasts about 20-25 years. The best part, is they can still produce electricity well beyond that just at a lesser efficiency. Delaware residents, on average, experience a payback of 12 years on their system. 

Within your specific situation, consider the high upfront costs, sun exposure on your roof, and your energy needs. That should all go into your budget overview. 

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 Delaware

There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Delaware. 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.

Delaware Solar Incentives

Besides the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. Some incentives are statewide and others are more local. In Delaware, check with your local utility provider for rebates. It could make your break your solar decision.

This table shows the available incentives in Delaware. But, just because you don't see it here doesn't mean it doesn't exist.

Name State Category Type
Net Metering DE Regulatory Policy Net Metering
DEMEC - Green Power Program DE Regulatory Policy Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Research and Development Grants DE Financial Incentive Grant Program
Delmarva - Green Energy Fund DE Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
Delmarva Power - Green Energy Program Incentives DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Fuel Mix Disclosure DE Regulatory Policy Generation Disclosure
Interconnection Guidelines DE Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Renewables Portfolio Standard DE Regulatory Policy Renewables Portfolio Standard
Energy Conservation Standards for State Facilities DE Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Building Energy Code DE Regulatory Policy Building Energy Code
Delaware Energy An$wers for Business DE Financial Incentive Grant Program
Delaware Energy An$wers for Home Appliances DE Financial Incentive Grant Program
Delaware Electric Cooperative - Green Power Program DE Regulatory Policy Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Sustainable Energy Utility DE Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
Delaware Electric Cooperative - Green Energy Fund DE Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
Delaware Energy An$wers Home Performance Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Delaware Solar Rights Law DE Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
Wind Access and Permitting Law DE Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Energy Star Appliance Rebates DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Mandatory Utility Green Power Options DE Regulatory Policy Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
DEMEC - Green Energy Program Incentives DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Delaware Electric Cooperative - Green Energy Program Incentives DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Standard Lighting for Business Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) Spot Market Program DE Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Delaware - Green Power Requirement For State Facilities DE Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Non-Residential Efficiency Plus Rebate Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Efficiency Plus Homes Heating and Cooling Rebate Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Home Performance with Energy Star Rebates DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Non-Residential Efficiency Plus Financing Program DE Financial Incentive Loan Program
Copy of Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Non-Residential Efficiency Plus Rebate Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Delaware Electric Cooperative - Green Energy Program Incentives DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DEMEC Member Utilities - Green Energy Program Incentives DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Efficiency Resource Standards DE Regulatory Policy Energy Efficiency Resource Standard
Dover Public Utilities - Green Energy Program Incentives DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Home Performance with Energy Star Loans DE Financial Incentive Loan Program
SREC Procurement Program DE Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Home Performance with ENERGY STAR DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Delaware Energy Efficiency Investment Fund Rebates DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energize Delaware Home Energy Loan Program DE Financial Incentive Loan Program
Sustainable Electric Utility (SEU)- SREC Purchase Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) Spot Market Program DE Financial Incentive Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
SREC Procurement Program DE Financial Incentive Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Energize Delaware Farm Loan Program DE Financial Incentive Loan Program
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) – Energize Delaware Farm Grant Program DE Financial Incentive Grant Program
Delaware Clean Vehicle Rebate Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Rebates DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DEMEC Member Utilities - Efficiency Smart Residential Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DEMEC Member Utilities - Efficiency Smart Business Program DE Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Home Energy-Efficiency Loan Program DE Financial Incentive Loan Program
Solar-Ready Zones DE Regulatory Policy Solar Access Law/Guideline
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

Delaware Solar Companies

There are hundreds of solar companies in Delaware. 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?

Delaware Farms vs Solar

In Delaware, there's a big change happening with how land is used, especially on farms. More and more, land previously used for crops like soybeans is now being used for solar energy projects. This change is partly driven by state mandates to increase renewable energy sources.

Donna Calhoun, a resident, decided to lease her land to Brookfield Properties to use her family's farmland to build a big solar energy project, one of many in Southern Delaware. 

This project is known as the Freeman Solar project. It is set to occupy around 351 acres and is one of many such initiatives in southern Delaware. These projects are seen as less impactful on the environment and traffic compared to housing developments, and they offer a more lucrative income for landowners compared to traditional farming.

Right now, Delaware has a lot of solar power, about 172 MW, and it's going to get even more in the next couple of years. But not everyone is happy about using farm land for solar energy. Some people in places like Kent County are worried that it might change farming too much. They have made rules about where solar projects can go. This whole thing is about trying to find better ways to get energy without hurting our planet. Some people think it's a great idea to use solar energy, but others are worried about changing too much too fast.

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 Delaware 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.

Delaware Solar FAQs

The cost of solar panel installation in Delaware 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 Delaware is $16,500 for a 6kW system or about or about $2.75 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.

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.

In Delaware, HOAs can set certain restrictions regarding the placement and aesthetics of solar panels, but they cannot completely prohibit their installation. It's advisable to check with your HOA for specific guidelines before proceeding with solar installation.

The average lifespan of a solar panel system is about 25-30 years. However, many systems continue to operate efficiently beyond this period, albeit at a slightly reduced capacity.

Delaware's climate is generally favorable for solar panels. However, regular maintenance, such as cleaning the panels and ensuring they are free of debris, is important for optimal performance. In areas with heavy snowfall, additional cleaning will be required for snow removal.

At the end of their lifespan, solar panels can be recycled. Many components of the panels, such as glass and metal, can be reclaimed and reused. Some companies specialize in solar panel recycling.