How much do solar panels cost in Connecticut?

Installing residential solar panels can cost between $10,000 to $30,000 or more, though individual costs vary significantly depending on your energy needs and the system’s size. Systems are typically measured in kilowatts (kW), which represents how much energy the system can produce. The average system size in Connecticut is 7.5 kW.

To determine roughly what size system you need, first look up how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you used last year on your electricity bill. Divide that number by 1,200. This will be roughly the system size you need. For example, if your home used 30,000 kWh last year, you would need a 25-kW system.

» WATT’S THE DIFFERENCE? kW vs. kWh

Average cost by system size in Connecticut

Are solar panels worth it in Connecticut?

Installing solar panels can lead to significant long-term savings on electricity bills for Connecticut homeowners. Many solar customers we spoke to have seen their monthly costs drop dramatically since going solar.

Robert in Oxford said he's already saved around $100 in just three months. Others like Chris in Wolcott and Wayne in Hebron were happy to see their electric bills fall after switching to solar power.

However, some solar customers recommend keeping a few things in mind:

• Installation day can be noisy with all the construction, so consider relocating pets for the day.
• Snow cover on panels may temporarily reduce efficiency until it's removed or melts off.
• Bill savings from solar panels can take a year or two to materialize as you pay down the solar loan or recoup installation costs.

Once your solar loans are paid off, though, the savings can be substantial. Neal in East Haven was paying $400 per month for electricity. Now, his $300 solar loan payment saves him $100 per month. After paying the loan, he anticipates $0 in energy costs.

For Michael in Somers, who lives in a 5,000-square-foot home, his annual electric bill dropped from $4,000 to around just $100 after installing solar panels. He was especially thrilled to see his summer air conditioning bill decrease from $800 to $19 in the first year with solar power.

Other Connecticut homeowners, like Brian in Hampton, chose to go solar to gain energy independence, reduce grid reliance and benefit the environment in addition to the eventual utility savings.

In general, many solar panel owners in Connecticut find that the system pays for itself within five to 10 years through lower electric bills and tax incentives. After that, they receive nearly free electricity generated from the sun. As electric rates continue rising, solar power becomes an even smarter investment over time for Connecticut residents.

Cost factors of going solar in Connecticut

"How much is this gonna cost me?"

The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think. The cost of your solar panel system depends on many factors, including the size of the system you need, the quality of the panels you choose and how old your roof is.

Equipment costs

Most of your solar equipment costs come down to how much you pay for solar panels. The number of solar panels you need depends on how much energy you need, but it also depends on the panel’s efficiency. Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity.

» LEARN MORE: How many solar panels do I need for my house?

The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels. Keep in mind that Connecticut only gets around 2.5 to 3.5 average peak sun hours. Regardless of your panels’ efficiency, you may need to purchase more to make up for the lack of sun and make the most of your peak sun hours.

You might also have to spend more if aesthetics are important to you. For example, Angela in Branford assumed that her panels would be black, but they weren’t. “Black would be an additional charge. We decided it wasn't worth the additional charge to get it,” she said.

Adding solar batteries and monitoring systems can also add to the cost. Solar batteries run from $7,000 to $18,000.

The condition of your roof

Solar panels are large and heavy, so your roof needs to be strong enough to handle that. It’s a good idea to have a professional inspect your roof before having panels installed.

It's not just about holding up the panels, though. Your roof needs to go the distance. Solar panels are in it for the long game, lasting about 25 to 30 years. Your roof needs to stick around just as long.

If it doesn't, you're going to be stuck with the extra cost of taking down the panels when it's time for a roof makeover. Make sure your roof is both strong and durable before you make the solar leap.

» MORE: Should you replace your roof before going solar?

How you pay

There are options if you can’t pay the full upfront cost for your new solar system. Connecticut offers several solar loans to finance solar panels. Many are low-interest with fixed rates. Another option is leasing solar equipment or getting a PPA (power purchase agreement). While neither of these options ends with you owning the solar system, you still get the benefits of solar.

Local permits and fees

Connecticut towns have their own laws on what types of permits and zoning variances you need to get solar. The fees for these vary from town to town.

» GUIDE: Solar panel installation guide

Solar incentives, tax credits and rebates in Connecticut

The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the best financial incentive for going solar in Connecticut. If you're installing a residential solar panel system by the end of 2032, you can deduct 30% of the price of your system from your federal taxes. That includes equipment, labor and permits. The credit drops to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.

The average ITC value in Connecticut is $6,300 in 2023.

Connecticut also offers tax exemptions and loans to help you pay for going solar. Most residents qualify for a property tax exemption for the value a solar system adds to their house. You also get a 100% sales tax exemption on solar equipment.

If you need help financing, you can apply for loans with low interest rates. Low-income residents may even qualify for zero-interest loans.

» EXPLORE: Connecticut solar incentives

Compare solar installation companies in Connecticut

Compare popular solar companies available in Connecticut below. Read our guide to finding the best solar companies for more.

» TIPS: Tips for getting the best solar quotes

Bottom line

In Connecticut, going solar is achievable no matter your budget. The average cost to install solar panels is $14,700 after taking into account the federal solar investment tax credit. This is about 12% cheaper than the national average, making it a more affordable option for residents of the Constitution State.

The state also offers low-interest loans and additional tax incentives to make solar systems even more budget-friendly. Low-income residents can even snag a zero-interest loan to make paying for solar easier. Overall, you can expect an average payback period of eight years, and over a 25-year span, you could net an estimated savings of $42,705.

» STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

Solar costs: Connecticut vs. nearby states