Solar Panel Cost Guide in Brighton, PA (2023 Update)
- Brighton Solar Installation Cost: $12,459
- 25-Year Savings: $14,519
- Payback Period: 11.6 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Brighton
See how much it might cost to go solar in Brighton.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Brighton it's 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,459 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Brighton homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Brighton homeowner can save around $15,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Brighton for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Brighton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,380 |
| 3 years | $-9,222 |
| 5 years | $-7,064 |
| 7 years | $-4,905 |
| 9 years | $-2,747 |
| 11 years | $-589 |
| 13 years | $1,570 |
| 15 years | $3,728 |
| 17 years | $5,886 |
| 19 years | $8,044 |
| 21 years | $10,203 |
| 23 years | $12,361 |
| 25 years | $14,519 |
Top Solar Installers in Brighton
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and handiness. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Brighton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Brighton
For many Brighton homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Brighton, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The brand of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Moreover, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Brighton, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Brighton homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Brighton, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Brighton are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.65 | $11,138 | $12,037 | 12.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $16,334 | 11.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $20,775 | 11.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $25,358 | 11.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $30,085 | 11.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $34,954 | 10.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $39,965 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $45,120 | 10.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you choose.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about your solar system's energy production.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Brighton, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Brighton?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Brighton?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home 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 savings from going solar.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $772.50 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.