Solar Panel Cost Guide in Center, PA (2023 Update)
- Center Solar Installation Cost: $12,468
- 25-Year Savings: $17,246
- Payback Period: 10.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Center
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Center.
The average cost of solar panels in Center is 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.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Center homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With average savings of about $16,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Center find going solar can be quite rewarding.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Center
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,369 |
| 3 years | $-12,171 |
| 5 years | $-11,972 |
| 7 years | $-11,774 |
| 9 years | $-11,576 |
| 11 years | $-11,378 |
| 13 years | $-11,180 |
| 15 years | $-10,982 |
| 17 years | $-10,784 |
| 19 years | $-10,586 |
| 21 years | $-10,388 |
| 23 years | $-10,190 |
| 25 years | $-9,991 |
Top Solar Installers in Center
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to go with a solar installation company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. Plus, if you aren't sure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Center:
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 Center
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Center
Although the average cost of a solar system in Center is $12,459, your actual cost may be above or below the average. 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 take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will significantly influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Moreover, solar equipment goes beyond 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 researching a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Center homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Center, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.
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 | $14,386 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $19,467 | 10.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $24,691 | 10.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $30,058 | 10.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $35,567 | 10.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $41,220 | 9.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $47,015 | 9.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $52,953 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about your solar system's energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
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 Center, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Center?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Center?
You can't get solar panels for free in Center. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?
Solar panels can increase your property's value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
How long do solar panels last in Center?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.