Solar Panel Cost Guide in York, OH (2024 Update)
- York Solar Installation Cost: $17,906
- 25-Year Savings: $20,012
- Payback Period: 13.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in York
We break down average solar pricing in York.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in York typically cost around 3.The average York homeowner needs a 7.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,906 with the federal tax credit, or $25,606 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in York based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average York homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in York
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,313 |
| 3 years | $-13,127 |
| 5 years | $-9,941 |
| 7 years | $-6,755 |
| 9 years | $-3,569 |
| 11 years | $-383 |
| 13 years | $2,802 |
| 15 years | $5,988 |
| 17 years | $9,174 |
| 19 years | $12,360 |
| 21 years | $15,546 |
| 23 years | $18,732 |
| 25 years | $21,918 |
Top Solar Installers in York
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and knowledge. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Since solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in York:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in York
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in York
Though the average cost of a solar system in York is $17,906, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,410.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the York average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in York provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for York homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can affect how much you pay. York’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.55 | $14,895 | $11,863 | 13.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.48 | $19,478 | $16,200 | 13.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.41 | $23,870 | $20,727 | 13.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.34 | $28,071 | $25,445 | 13.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.27 | $32,081 | $30,355 | 12.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.21 | $35,900 | $35,455 | 12.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.14 | $39,529 | $40,746 | 12.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.07 | $42,966 | $46,228 | 12.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies available in York, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you’d like to install plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's York, OH Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in York?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,050 for a 5-kW system and $34,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in York?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Does York have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.