Thinking about going solar in Mount Arlington, NJ? You’re in a great location to take advantage of the many incentives available and lower your electricity bills. The average cost for a solar panel installation in Mount Arlington, for a typical 7kW-8kW system, ranges from $15,000 to $17,000 after factoring in the 30% federal tax credit and initial incentives from New Jersey’s SuSI program. This price can vary depending on factors like the size of your system, the type of panels you choose, the complexity of the installation, and the installer you select. To learn more about state regulations, check out our complete New Jersey Solar Energy guide.
System Options & Costs
Here’s a breakdown of typical solar panel system sizes and estimated costs in Mount Arlington, NJ, after incentives. Keep in mind these are estimates, and actual costs can vary.
| System Size (kW) | Average Cost After Incentives | Typical Home Size (Sq Ft) | Annual Energy Production (kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5kW | $10,000 – $12,000 | 1,000 – 1,500 | 6,000 – 7,500 |
| 7kW | $14,000 – $16,000 | 1,500 – 2,000 | 8,400 – 10,500 |
| 8kW | $16,000 – $18,000 | 2,000 – 2,500 | 9,600 – 12,000 |
| 10kW | $20,000 – $23,000 | 2,500 – 3,000+ | 12,000 – 15,000 |
Local Factors
Navigating the local regulations in Mount Arlington is key to a smooth solar installation. Here’s what you need to know:
- Permits: Solar installations in Mount Arlington require permits from Morris County and the local building department. Your solar installer will typically handle the permit application process, ensuring compliance with all local codes.
- Labor Rates: Installation labor rates in the Mount Arlington area are competitive. Expect to pay between $75 and $120 per hour for qualified and licensed solar installers. Always verify the contractor’s license at New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU).
- Net Metering: New Jersey has excellent net metering policies. PSEG, the primary utility in Mount Arlington, offers full retail credit (1:1) for any excess energy your solar panels send back to the grid. This means you’ll be credited the same rate you pay for electricity for any excess solar production.
- Sales Tax Exemption: New Jersey offers a 100% sales tax exemption on solar equipment. This provides an instant discount of 6.625% at the time of purchase.
- Property Tax Exemption: Your property taxes will NOT increase as a result of installing solar panels, even though they add significant value to your home.
- SuSI Program (SREC-II): This is a significant incentive. Homeowners earn approximately $85 for every 1,000 kWh (1 MWh) of solar energy produced for 15 years. This is guaranteed cash income that offsets the initial investment significantly.
- High Electricity Rates: New Jersey has some of the highest electricity rates in the nation. Going solar allows you to “lock in” a low electricity rate for 25+ years, shielding you from future rate increases.
Weather Impact
Mount Arlington enjoys ample sunlight throughout the year, with over 200 sunny days annually. This makes it highly effective for solar energy generation, even though it’s located in the Northeast. While snow can temporarily reduce solar production, panels are typically angled to allow snow to slide off. Solar panels are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including snow and ice. In fact, the cooler temperatures in the winter can actually improve solar panel efficiency, as panels perform optimally in cooler climates. Solar production is highest during the spring and summer months when sunlight is most abundant.
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FAQ
- How long does solar panel installation take?
The actual installation typically takes 1-3 days, but the entire process, including permitting and inspection, can take 4-8 weeks. - How much money will I save with solar panels?
Savings vary based on energy consumption and system size, but many homeowners in Mount Arlington see significant reductions in their electricity bills, often eliminating them entirely. Combined with the SREC-II program, the financial benefits are substantial. - How long do solar panels last?
Most solar panels come with a 25-year performance warranty, and they can often last much longer with minimal degradation in output.