Solar panel cost in Paterson, NJ (2026)
A typical Paterson home needs about a 7 kW system (~18 panels), costing roughly $21,350 upfront or $17,850 after state incentives. The 30% federal credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025 (a lease/PPA can still pass it through). At 4.03 peak sun hours and New Jersey's 17.8¢/kWh rate, it pays back in about 12.2 years and saves an estimated $31,985 over 25 years.
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Preset to Paterson's local sunlight. Adjust your monthly bill for a personalized estimate.
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| Annual electricity use | 8,292 kWh |
| Annual solar production | 8,237 kWh |
| Gross system cost | $21,350 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $3,500 |
| 30% via lease/PPA instead | ~$6,405 value |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 2.9 tons (~48 trees) |
Estimates only — not a quote or financial advice. See our methodology.
What makes Paterson different
Paterson (population ~147,754) gets 4.03 peak sun hours per day — that's 8% less sunny than the New Jersey average of 4.4. Slightly less local sunlight means panels produce a touch less than the state average, so sizing and orientation matter. Electricity rates, net metering, and incentives are set at the New Jersey level: residents pay about 17.8¢/kWh, and susi program ($85/srec-ii) + sales tax exemption.
| City peak sun hours | 4.03 hrs/day |
| Recommended system size | 7 kW (~18 panels) |
| Installed price per watt | $3/W |
| Gross system cost | $21,350 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 31, 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $3,500 |
| Net cash cost | $17,850 |
| 30% credit via lease/PPA | ~$6,405 value |
| Annual energy produced | 8,237 kWh |
| Estimated year-1 savings | $1,466 |
| Payback period | 12.2 years |
| 25-year net savings | $31,985 |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 2.9 tons (~48 trees) |
Compare with the New Jersey state average (6.4 kW, $16,020 net, 10.9-yr payback). Modeled estimates, June 2026 — not a quote. See methodology.
Compare real solar quotes in Paterson, NJ
See actual prices from vetted local installers — including lease and PPA options that still capture the 30% credit in 2026. Free, no obligation.