Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cumru, PA (2023 Update)
- Cumru Solar Installation Cost: $11,870
- 25-Year Savings: $13,244
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cumru
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Cumru.
In Cumru, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. The average Cumru homeowner needs a 6.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,870 with the federal tax credit, or $16,974 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Cumru homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Cumru can save about $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Cumru
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,866 |
| 3 years | $-8,856 |
| 5 years | $-6,847 |
| 7 years | $-4,838 |
| 9 years | $-2,829 |
| 11 years | $-820 |
| 13 years | $1,189 |
| 15 years | $3,199 |
| 17 years | $5,208 |
| 19 years | $7,217 |
| 21 years | $9,226 |
| 23 years | $11,235 |
| 25 years | $13,244 |
Top Solar Installers in Cumru
Installing solar panels on your own can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for you.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Cumru, the EcoWatch team has 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Cumru
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cumru
The cost of installing a solar system in Cumru can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Cumru, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted 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 limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When considering 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 installer you pick will impact your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Cumru know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $11,518 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,643 | 12.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,911 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $24,321 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $28,874 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $33,570 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $38,409 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $43,391 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Cumru, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Cumru?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Cumru?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of 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 Cumru 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 offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually 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.