Solar Panel Cost Guide in Coal, PA (2024 Update)
- Coal Solar Installation Cost: $17,125
- 25-Year Savings: $12,010
- Payback Period: 17.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Coal
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Coal.
The average cost of solar panels in Coal is 4 per watt.The average Coal homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,125 with the federal tax credit, or $24,489 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Coal homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Coal
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,780 |
| 3 years | $-13,088 |
| 5 years | $-10,397 |
| 7 years | $-7,706 |
| 9 years | $-5,015 |
| 11 years | $-2,324 |
| 13 years | $368 |
| 15 years | $3,059 |
| 17 years | $5,750 |
| 19 years | $8,441 |
| 21 years | $11,132 |
| 23 years | $13,823 |
| 25 years | $16,515 |
Top Solar Installers in Coal
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Another good thing about going with a reputable solar installer is that it'll provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar investment.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Coal, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Coal
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Coal
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Coal: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of 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 require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Coal, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Coal, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total 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 more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.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 with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $5,660 | 18.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $7,944 | 18.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $10,427 | 17.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $13,108 | 17.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $15,989 | 16.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $19,068 | 16.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $22,346 | 16.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $25,823 | 15.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Coal, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer in regard to 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.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Coal, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Coal?
The average cost of solar panels in Coal 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 things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Coal?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Coal. However, you may still be able to get 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.
Is it worth going solar in Coal?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much 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 buy 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.