Solar Panels Cost 6.6k-15k in Dover, DE | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $6.6k-$15k in Dover, DE | November, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Dover, DE in 2024?

As of November, 2024, the current cost to get solar panels installed in Dover, DE is $3.16 per watt.

Said another way, for every 1000 watts (or 1 Kw) your system can generate you will spend $3,160 to get your system installed in . When you deduct the 30% federal tax credit, you can expect to spend approximately $11,060 for a 5 kW solar setup in Dover. It's vital to consider that a higher capacity system might be essential to fulfill your energy needs.

On the left, you can choose your county to view the average roof size and the maximum capacity for residential solar on houses in your area. You can also see an outline of the costs, payback period and 20 year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county below.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Dover: $11,060US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Dover: 6 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Dover: $23,750US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Dover

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Dover.

Roof size 626sq. ft.
Capacity 8.75kW DC
Electricity 10.7kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Dover, DE & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

For Dover energy consumers, the typical electric bill is $164.79 per month, with a usage of 828 kWh. Smaller dwellings, such as townhouses and condos, are also covered in the statistics mentioned in the preceding sentence.

Dover, DE's electricity rate is 19.89¢ per kWh in November 2024.

If you’re a typical electricity consumer in Dover you has to have a 7 kW or higher sized system to take care of all of your energy usage demands. Initially, a 7 kWsetup will cost about $22,120, but with a 30% federal tax credit, the price drops to $15,484.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Dover

To the left side and below, there is the pricing details for multiple sizes of the solar panel systems set up in Dover. Naturally, with a larger solar system, there will be a larger initial investment, but the advantages include greater energy savings and larger income tax credits.

The solar panel cost calculator, located to the right and below, offers a cost and benefit breakdown using an average $164.79 electric bill for Dover. To get personalized results, adjust the $164.79 to align with your typical electricity payment.

System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $909 a year
Est. Price
$6,636
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,547 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $76
  • Full payback in 3 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.97 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 91 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,879 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,213 a year
Est. Price
$8,848
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,063 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $101
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.63 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 121 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 6,506 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,516 a year
Est. Price
$11,060
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,579 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $126
  • Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.29 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 151 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,132 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,819 a year
Est. Price
$13,272
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 9,095 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $152
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.94 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 181 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,759 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,122 a year
Est. Price
$15,484
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 10,610 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $165
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.29 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 197 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 10,623 mi less a year

Dover Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

If you own a agricultural property or small business in a rural area, the REAP Grant could cover between 80% and 100% of your solar or wind turbine installation costs. Think you are eligible? Use our REAP Grant eligibility tool to see if you are eligible.

For those looking into residential solar, the 30% federal income tax credit is offered to nearly everyone, making solar a feasible option in various states. A number of state and local efforts are set up to enhance the adoption of solar energy.

Delaware residents have access to 15 solar rebate and incentive initiatives from multiple utilities and governmental bodies.

Solar incentives in DE

Green Grant- Solar Hot Water and Geothermal program

Value:Up to $200,000

The Green Grant Delaware incentive program is co-administered by the Delaware Sustainable Utility and Department of Natural Resources. The program incentivizes commercial, industrial, and nonprofit customers anywhere in the state to install solar thermal or geothermal energy devices. Interested customers must apply online through the program website. Applicants must answer certain technical questions and submit planning documents for DESEU's review. Once the project is approved, construction may begin. Rebates will be awarded upon project completion at a rate proportional to the customer's estimated cost savings.

DEMEC Member Utilities - Green Energy Program Incentives

Value:Up to $7,500

Residential and commercial customers in the city of Newark may be entitled to a financial incentive upon installing a solar PV/thermal, wind, geothermal, or fuel cell energy system. Rebate amounts are based on system type and rated capacity up to a maximum threshold, and will add to net metering credits the customer may receive through using their system. To qualify for the incentive, the system must be installed by a certified contractor and carry a satisfactory warranty term. Restrictions on shade and panel orientation also apply. Additional information is available on the DEMEC website.

Delmarva Power - Green Energy Program Incentives

Value:Up to $6,000

Residential and commercial Delmarva (DPL) customers may be entitled to a rebate upon installing a solar PV or thermal system, small turbine, or heat pump. The rebate will vary depending on the type of system, its rated capacity, and the type of property the owner has. To qualify, customers must undergo a pre-installation energy audit, use a DPL certified contractor for installation, and ensure their system has at least a five-year warranty. New residential or commercial buildings may also be eligible for the incentive, provided the facility meets ENERGY STAR certification standards. Incentives will be awarded until funding runs out for the year. Further information is available from the Delmarva website.

Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) - Revolving Loan Fund

Value:Varies

The Delaware Sustainable Utility (DESEU) manages a Revolving Loan Fund to provide financial assistance to businesses and public entities making energy efficiency capital improvements. The borrower may use loan funds before and during installation of their new equipment. Eligible projects and services include any procedures required to bring the property up to code in preparation for improvements. Contracting services funded by an RLF loan must meet proper licensure and labor standards. For applicants, credit checks, bank references, and energy audits may apply. Additional information is available through the Energize Delaware website.

Delmarva - Green Energy Fund

Value:Varies

Delaware's Green Energy Fund was created alongside the state's renewable portfolio standard in 1999. Electric utilities in the state may contribute to the fund or establish their own similar fund in lieu of participating in the RPS; the current required contribution is $0.178 per megawatt hour sold in or transmitted through Delaware. Contributions to the Green Energy Fund support research in and procurement of energy efficiency solutions. Delaware also has energy public benefits funds supported by state utilities. Around $2.6 million per year from the fund supports energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption programs, with $800,000 per year supporting programs targeted at low-income customers. Additional information can be found on Delmarva Power's website as they are the most significant contributor to each fund.

Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation - Green Energy Fund

Value:Varies

DEMEC, an alliance of nine local utilities in Delaware, elected to create their own Green Energy Funds in lieu of participating in the state fund or renewable portfolio standard. Each of the cities of Dover, Newark, Middletown, New Castle, Smyrna, Seaford, Clayton, Milford, and Lewes has an individual fund supported by a tariff on customer energy bills. In Dover, Milford, and Newark, funding currently supports a variety of incentive programs for renewable energy adoption. Central DEMEC policies dictate that cities cannot access other local funds. Incentive programs or other initiatives may therefore have stricter financial or practical limitations through the fiscal year. Additional information is available on the DEMEC website.

Net Metering

Value:Varies

Utilities in the state of Delaware participate in net metering arrangements with their distributed renewable energy customers. Most solar PV, wind, hydroelectric, or fuel cell system qualifies, as well as some electric vehicles sending energy back to the grid. Capacity limits for residential customers are 25 kW; for farms, 100 kW; for non-residential DEC/municipal customers, 500 kW; and for non-residential Delmarva customers, 2 MW. Participating customers agree to sell their net excess generation (NEG) back to the utility. They may choose to be paid an annual lump sum or receive regular bill credits at a variable rate. Under the monthly option, should generation exceed consumption for a cycle, the NEG credits will carry over to the next one. Any unclaimed credits will be paid directly to the customer at the end of the year. "Virtual net metering" arrangements are intended for customers using a community renewable microgrid. The utility will compensate subscribers for combined NEG at a wholesale rate. Additional information is available from the DEPSC website.

Sustainable Electric Utility (SEU)- SREC Purchase Program

Value:Varies

Any Delaware resident with a solar PV system that commenced operation after August 2014 may be entitled to sell their renewable credits to the Sustainable Energy Utility if they are not already under such an arrangement. The purchase program is a part of Delaware's "open auction" for SRECs and operates in spot markets. Participants will agree to a 20-year contract in which the state will reimburse them $55 per credit. Each SREC is equal to about one megawatt hour of energy. Certain new PV systems may qualify to enter a contract if they were constructed through the Green Grant Delaware program. Additional information is available from the program website.

Renewables Portfolio Standard

Value:Varies

Beginning with S.B. 74, the state of Delaware has established a Renewable Portfolio Standard for itself. The standard has been renewed and expanded each time it was set to expire. Under current law, one quarter of the state's energy must come from renewable sources by 2025. Compliance is measured using Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) pegged to a certain dollar amount. All electric utilities operating within state lines are required to purchase RECs from their customers toward the standard and produce annual compliance reports. Credits are valid for three years after they are acquired. Utilities may opt out of participation in the standard if they contribute to the state's Green Energy Fund (GEF) or establish an RPS program and GEF of their own. Additional information is available on the Delaware Public Service Commission website.

Delaware Electric Cooperative - Green Energy Program Incentives

Value:Varies

Through their own Green Energy Fund, the Delaware Electric Cooperative awards rebates to members installing on-site solar, wind, fuel cell, or geothermal energy equipment. Applications will be open until funding runs out for the year. For program purposes, equipment under rebate is divided into two tiers based on average annual consumption: Class A and Class B. A customer's rebate amount will vary depending on which tier their system is sorted into and the type of technology involved. To qualify, customers must use a participating DEC installation contractor and meet minimum warranty requirements. They may also need to undergo a pre-installation energy audit. Additional information is available on the DEC websit

Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) Spot Market Program

Value:Varies

Users of solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric power systems in Delaware generate renewable energy credits (RECs). For solar power, one SREC equals one megawatt hour and is priced at roughly $55. Utilities must purchase these credits to go toward the state's renewable portfolio standard or pay an alternative compliance fee. Renewable generation system owners within certain localities may sell their SRECs to utilities on an open "spot market" for as long as their generation equipment is in proper working order. Interested Delawareans may certify their equipment with the Delaware Public Service Commission to access the GATS bidirectional metering and credit commerce system. Additional information is available on the DEPSC website.

Sustainable Energy Utility

Value:Varies

Energize Delaware is an initiative managed by the state's Sustainable Energy Utility and created in 2007. The program is not a PACE program, but it operates on similar "open market" principles. Any utility customer, no matter their type or needs, may make use of the program to obtain incentives when they adopt renewable energy solutions. The full breadth of advisory, procurement, and installation services are available through Energize Delaware. Many of the current programs target residential renewable energy with an emphasis on solar PV and thermal systems. Additional information is available on the program website.

Interconnection Guidelines

Value:Varies

Multiple Delaware regulators have issued standardized rules for interconnecting power systems on a distributed grid. While required standards vary between utilities, most regulations currently apply to the Delmarva and DEC grids. Regulations are divided into four tiers based on a generation system's size and technology. As rated capacity increases, interconnection application review turnaround will lengthen and administrative fees become more expensive. Certain expedited review processes may apply for small systems using internationally certified equipment. Any interconnected system must have breakers, break isolators, and disconnect switches for safety. Owners must also obtain a minimum system warranty and sufficient liability insurance. Additional information is available from the DNREC website.

Delaware Electric Cooperative - Green Energy Fund

Value:Varies

The Delaware Electric Cooperative was one of several utilities to opt out of the state's Green Energy Fund and renewable portfolio standard. In lieu of either program, the cooperative instead manages its own fund worth about $206,000 per year. This fund is supported by a tariff on customer energy bills. Funding typically supports distributed generation initiatives and rebate programs incentivizing customers to adopt renewable energy. Programs will vary from time to time, and they may have stricter financial or practical limitations due to a smaller annual budget. Additional information is available on the cooperative website.

SREC Procurement Program

Value:Varies

The Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) Procurement Program sets the process by which Delaware can create a market for the exchange of SRECs. The policy creates a conduit for solar energy generators to procure SRECs based on the size of the system. Generators apply through a bidding process to receive the certificates through new projects only. Applicants receive interconnection with the main utility grid to allow for the exchange of power for SRECs. Generators that use state-approved labor resources receive a 10 percent bonus.

Are solar panels worth it in Delaware?

If you're planning to stay in your home past the period required to pay back your solar investment, choosing solar panels is a wise decision in Dover. Having a 5 kW solar system in Dover, DE can potentially save you roughly $28,489.6 over a span of 20 years, with an average break even point of 6 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Dover, DE

Skipping the installation of solar panels or an alternative backup energy source results in missing the earlier mentioned savings and total reliance on your electric utility for power. As recent news articles have pointed out, full dependence on your utility provider isn't always ideal.

Yearly, customers in Dover face approximately 0.6 outages every year. On average, the length of an outage is 56.04 minutes. Major events like winter storms, wildlife damage, or grid management errors can cause these durations to rise considerably.

A solar panel system with (or without) a backup battery could reduce the strain of future outages you face.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Kent County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Dover, DE?

Your Energy Needs - Larger solar panel systems have a higher upfront cost, but the cost per watt decreases as the system size increases. It is often beneficial for consumers to install a solar system that can generate enough electricity to fully cover their electric bill, which leads to substantial savings.

Make & Model - Like many other products, there are different makes and models of solar panels to choose from. Your installer’s potential system preferences make it essential to select a recommended contractor. For consumers wanting a better long-term experience, choosing superior quality equipment is essential.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have emerged as the standard in the industry, and rightly so. Although the cost is higher, they deliver more energy. The majority of installers use these kinds of panels.

Your Property - Challenges such as irregular terrain, trees, or other obstructions can increase the difficulty of installing solar panels. Solar installers now have the ability to use satellite images to evaluate your home and factor in these considerations in the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - The differing wages that companies give their employees result in costs that are inevitably transferred to consumers. Businesses that invest in higher wages typically see higher reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Your installation cost will be influenced by area-specific permitting and utility interconnection fees. Quality local installers will integrate these figures into your initial estimates to prevent any surprises.

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Who are the best solar installers in Dover?

Freedom Forever

Temecula, CA(800) 685-1850

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Paradise Energy Solutions

Paradise CDP, PA(877) 851-9269

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.

Micrometer Engineering

Scottsdale, AZ(602) 790-5749

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Solar Energy World

Laurel, MD(866) 856-4580

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Dividend Finance

Cincinnati, OH(415) 805-7000

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(407) 832-42452

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

KW Solar Solutions

Elkton, MD(302) 838-8400

Services

  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of batteries.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Green Street Solar

Selbyville, DE(302) 297-8174

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Lumina Solar

Baltimore, MD(800) 971-6118

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

American Sentry Solar

Bel Air, MD(800) 823-0555

Services

  • Reparation of batteries.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Dover, DE Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • As of November, 2024, the average solar panel installation cost in Dover, DE has reached $3.16/W. After federal tax credits, the installation of a 5 kW solar panel system in Dover, DE is estimated to cost $11,060.
  • Residents of Delaware can currently take advantage of 15 rebates and incentives offered by various utilities and government bodies. Additionally, the vast majority qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
  • Opting for cash payments provides the highest savings, but there are now numerous financing options for solar panels that are financially sensible. Many installers have partnerships with financing companies and will provide this information in your initial quotes.
  • Yes, on average, 5 kW solar panels in Dover, DE pay for themselves in 6 years, with homeowners saving approximately $28,489.6 on electricity over 20 years.
Matt Hope
Last Reviewed By: Matt Hope
Published: 2024-11-01