Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cambria, PA (2023 Update)
- Cambria Solar Installation Cost: $12,505
- 25-Year Savings: $17,969
- Payback Period: 10.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cambria
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Cambria.
The average cost of solar panels in Cambria is 2.55 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Cambria is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,513 for a solar installation, or $17,894 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. With average savings of about $17,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Cambria find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Cambria
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,027 |
| 3 years | $-8,072 |
| 5 years | $-5,117 |
| 7 years | $-2,162 |
| 9 years | $792 |
| 11 years | $3,747 |
| 13 years | $6,702 |
| 15 years | $9,657 |
| 17 years | $12,612 |
| 19 years | $15,567 |
| 21 years | $18,522 |
| 23 years | $21,477 |
| 25 years | $24,432 |
Top Solar Installers in Cambria
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be right for your family.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Cambria
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cambria
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Cambria is $12,513, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $2,550. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Cambria offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panels can play a role in determining the cost. Cambria's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Cambria know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $14,961 | 10.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $20,234 | 10.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $25,649 | 10.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $31,207 | 10.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $36,908 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $42,752 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $48,739 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $54,868 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Cambria, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the endurance of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Cambria, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Cambria?
The average cost of solar panels in Cambria is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Cambria have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates 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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.