Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cranberry, PA (2024 Update)
- Cranberry Solar Installation Cost: $17,361
- 25-Year Savings: $13,722
- Payback Period: 16.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cranberry
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Cranberry.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Cranberry, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Because a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Cranberry, the average price of going solar will be about $17,361 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Cranberry depending on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Cranberry
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,835 |
| 3 years | $-12,784 |
| 5 years | $-9,733 |
| 7 years | $-6,682 |
| 9 years | $-3,630 |
| 11 years | $-579 |
| 13 years | $2,472 |
| 15 years | $5,523 |
| 17 years | $8,574 |
| 19 years | $11,625 |
| 21 years | $14,676 |
| 23 years | $17,727 |
| 25 years | $20,779 |
Top Solar Installers in Cranberry
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Another great thing about choosing a reliable solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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
See all of the solar companies in Cranberry
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cranberry
Although the average cost of a solar system in Cranberry is $17,361, your actual cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive 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. Also, 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 Cranberry provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Cranberry, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Cranberry know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $6,988 | 17.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $9,715 | 16.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $12,641 | 16.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $15,766 | 16.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $19,089 | 15.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $22,611 | 15.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $26,332 | 15.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $30,252 | 14.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which model 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 making your decision.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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
EcoWatch's Cranberry, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Cranberry?
The average cost of solar panels in Cranberry is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Cranberry?
Solar panels aren’t free in Cranberry, 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 can further reduce the cost.
Does Cranberry have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Cranberry?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose 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.