Solar Panel Cost Guide in Decatur, PA (2023 Update)
- Decatur Solar Installation Cost: $12,601
- 25-Year Savings: $19,081
- Payback Period: 9.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Decatur
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Decatur.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Decatur is 2.55 per watt. Since a 7.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Decatur, the average price of going solar will be about $12,602 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Decatur 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 most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Decatur homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Decatur
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,496 |
| 3 years | $-12,285 |
| 5 years | $-12,073 |
| 7 years | $-11,862 |
| 9 years | $-11,651 |
| 11 years | $-11,440 |
| 13 years | $-11,228 |
| 15 years | $-11,017 |
| 17 years | $-10,806 |
| 19 years | $-10,595 |
| 21 years | $-10,384 |
| 23 years | $-10,172 |
| 25 years | $-9,961 |
Top Solar Installers in Decatur
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra effort and expertise. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar installers provide can be valuable as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Decatur, we've compiled 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
See all of the solar companies in Decatur
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Decatur
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Decatur: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Decatur, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Decatur have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. 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 original cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Decatur, 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 specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional 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 | $15,788 | 10.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $21,337 | 10.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $27,028 | 9.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $32,862 | 9.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $38,839 | 9.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $44,958 | 9.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $51,221 | 9.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $57,626 | 8.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences 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:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the project timeline.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
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 Decatur, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Decatur?
The average cost of solar panels in Decatur is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real 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 Decatur?
Solar panels aren't free in Decatur, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, 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 Decatur have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use 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.