Solar Panel Cost Guide in Charleroi, PA (2024 Update)
- Charleroi Solar Installation Cost: $17,152
- 25-Year Savings: $8,723
- Payback Period: 20.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Charleroi
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Charleroi.
The average cost of solar panels in Charleroi is 4 per watt.The average Charleroi homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,152 with the federal tax credit, or $24,527 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $12,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Charleroi
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,069 |
| 3 years | $-13,904 |
| 5 years | $-11,738 |
| 7 years | $-9,572 |
| 9 years | $-7,406 |
| 11 years | $-5,240 |
| 13 years | $-3,075 |
| 15 years | $-909 |
| 17 years | $1,257 |
| 19 years | $3,423 |
| 21 years | $5,589 |
| 23 years | $7,754 |
| 25 years | $9,920 |
Top Solar Installers in Charleroi
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Some solar installers, particularly local ones, can help you better understand incentives in Charleroi, thereby optimizing your ROI.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. 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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
See all of the solar companies in Charleroi
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Charleroi
Though the average cost of a solar system in Charleroi is $17,152, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a significant 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 some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Charleroi average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Charleroi provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.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 securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in Charleroi, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $2,786 | 21.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $4,112 | 20.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $5,638 | 20.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $7,362 | 20.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $9,284 | 19.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $11,406 | 19.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $13,726 | 18.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $16,245 | 18.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: When reading through your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
EcoWatch's Charleroi, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Charleroi?
The average cost of solar panels in Charleroi is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Charleroi?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Charleroi, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Charleroi, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for 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 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.