Solar panels in New Jersey
What a residential solar system actually costs in New Jersey in 2026 — plus incentives, payback, and how to pick a vetted installer.
The real cost of solar in New Jersey
A typical 8.5 kW rooftop system in New Jersey runs about $25,925 installed. The federal Residential Clean Energy Credit knocks 30% off — around $7,778 — bringing the net price to roughly $18,147.
New Jersey adds its own incentive: SuSI TREC program (~$85/MWh). Stack that on top of the federal credit. New Jersey also exempts solar from both property and sales tax.
What you'll produce — and save
- ~10,921 kWh/year from a 8.5 kW system at 4.4 peak sun hours.
- At 17.5¢/kWh that's $1,911/yr off your electric bill in year one.
- Estimated payback: 9.5 years.
- 25-year net savings (2.5% annual rate escalation): $47,128.
Estimates only. Actual production depends on roof orientation, shade, equipment and your utility's specific tariff.
Net metering in New Jersey
New Jersey operates under a full retail policy for residential solar exports. Every kWh you export offsets a kWh you consume at retail rates — the strongest policy for homeowner economics.
Top New Jersey metros we cover
FAQ
How much do solar panels cost in New Jersey?
A typical 8.5 kW residential system in New Jersey costs about $25,925 before incentives, or roughly $3.05 per watt installed. After the 30% federal tax credit that drops to about $18,147.
Is solar worth it in New Jersey?
With an average residential electricity rate of 17.5¢/kWh and 4.4 peak sun hours per day, a properly sized system typically pays for itself in about 9.5 years and saves roughly $47,128 over 25 years.
Does New Jersey have net metering?
New Jersey operates under a full retail policy for residential solar exports. Exact credit values vary by utility — always confirm with the specific utility serving your address.
What state incentives are available in New Jersey?
State incentive: SuSI TREC program (~$85/MWh). Property tax exemption: Yes. Sales tax exemption: Yes. The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit also applies.
Get vetted New Jersey installer quotes.
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Sources: EIA average residential electricity rates, NREL PVWatts sun hour data, DSIRE state incentive database, LBNL "Tracking the Sun" installed-cost benchmarks. Figures are estimates for guidance only, not a binding quote.