Solar Panel Cost Guide in Charleroi, PA (2023 Update)
- Charleroi Solar Installation Cost: $12,321
- 25-Year Savings: $8,723
- Payback Period: 14.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Charleroi
Here's how much it might cost to go solar in Charleroi.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Charleroi, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Charleroi, most homeowners require a 6.9-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $12,316, or $17,612 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Charleroi 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 large upfront cost, the average Charleroi homeowner can save around $12,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Charleroi
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,251 |
| 3 years | $-12,110 |
| 5 years | $-11,970 |
| 7 years | $-11,830 |
| 9 years | $-11,689 |
| 11 years | $-11,549 |
| 13 years | $-11,409 |
| 15 years | $-11,268 |
| 17 years | $-11,128 |
| 19 years | $-10,988 |
| 21 years | $-10,848 |
| 23 years | $-10,707 |
| 25 years | $-10,567 |
Top Solar Installers in Charleroi
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a dangerous task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar installers provide can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Charleroi
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Charleroi
While the average cost of a solar system in Charleroi is $12,316, 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 residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Charleroi, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. The type 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. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Charleroi average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Charleroi, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. 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 securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar system can play a part in determining your pricing. Charleroi's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $7,154 | 15.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $9,824 | 14.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $12,638 | 14.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $15,594 | 14.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $18,692 | 14.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $21,934 | 13.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $25,318 | 13.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $28,845 | 13.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Charleroi, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer 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 the EcoWatch team.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you opt for.
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 Charleroi, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Charleroi?
The average cost of solar panels in Charleroi 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 stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Charleroi?
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.
Does Charleroi have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.