Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chartiers, PA (2023 Update)
- Chartiers Solar Installation Cost: $12,316
- 25-Year Savings: $8,727
- Payback Period: 14.6 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chartiers
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Chartiers.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Chartiers, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Chartiers is around 6.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,316 for a solar installation, or $17,612 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Chartiers homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $12,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chartiers
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,475 |
| 3 years | $-9,791 |
| 5 years | $-8,108 |
| 7 years | $-6,424 |
| 9 years | $-4,741 |
| 11 years | $-3,057 |
| 13 years | $-1,374 |
| 15 years | $310 |
| 17 years | $1,993 |
| 19 years | $3,677 |
| 21 years | $5,360 |
| 23 years | $7,044 |
| 25 years | $8,727 |
Top Solar Installers in Chartiers
When going solar, many homeowners choose to go with a solar company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a difficult project. The expertise that solar companies offer can be invaluable as well, particularly if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment you need.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar system company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Chartiers:
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 Chartiers
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chartiers
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Chartiers: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at 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 Chartiers have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Chartiers, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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
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. Since choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
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 Chartiers, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chartiers?
The average cost of solar panels in Chartiers is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Chartiers?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Chartiers?
The majority of 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 utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.