Solar Panel Savings in Burlington, VT
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Burlington, Vermont. Based on 3.7 peak sun hours/day and 20.4¢/kWh average electricity rate.
3.7
Peak Sun Hours/Day
20.4¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
9.9 yr
Payback Period
$20k
25-Year Savings
Burlington Solar Overview
Calculate Your Burlington Solar Savings
Burlington average: $158/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$45,225
Monthly Savings
$110
Federal Tax Credit
$5,616
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Burlington | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $18,720 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,616 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $13,104 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.12/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Burlington
Sun Hours vs National Average
Burlington gets 18% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 193 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 48.7°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,910 sq ft — enough for a 106-panel system
Burlington Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $18,720 system, that's a $5,616 credit. Valid through 2032.
Vermont State Incentives
Vermont net metering at retail rate; sales tax exemption.
Net Metering — Green Mountain Power
Green Mountain Power offers net metering in Burlington. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Burlington
2.7
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
45
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.6
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 6,482 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, Vermont receives an average of 3.7 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 20.4¢ per kWh from Green Mountain Power, well above the national average of 16¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Burlington produces approximately 6,482 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,324 annually. The system pays for itself in about 9.9 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 15+ years of the system's warranty life.
Burlington has a solar penetration rate of 3.5% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 107 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Vermont
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Burlington, VT?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Burlington is approximately $18,720 before incentives ($3.12/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $13,104. Vermont net metering at retail rate; sales tax exemption.
How many peak sun hours does Burlington get?
Burlington, VT receives an average of 3.7 peak sun hours per day and approximately 193 sunny days per year. While below the national average, solar panels can still provide significant savings due to advancing panel technology.
What is the solar payback period in Burlington?
The average solar payback period in Burlington is approximately 9.9 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $19,996.
Does Burlington have net metering?
Yes, Burlington has access to net metering through Green Mountain Power. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Burlington, VT?
Absolutely. With a 9.9-year payback period and $19,996 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Burlington. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.