Solar Panel Cost Guide in Derry, PA (2023 Update)
- Derry Solar Installation Cost: $11,995
- 25-Year Savings: $12,959
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Derry
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Derry.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Derry typically cost about 2.55. Using this figure, a typical 6.7-kW system would cost about $11,995 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and how much solar costs for you will most likely differ based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Derry, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Derry
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,997 |
| 3 years | $-9,001 |
| 5 years | $-7,004 |
| 7 years | $-5,008 |
| 9 years | $-3,012 |
| 11 years | $-1,015 |
| 13 years | $981 |
| 15 years | $2,977 |
| 17 years | $4,974 |
| 19 years | $6,970 |
| 21 years | $8,966 |
| 23 years | $10,962 |
| 25 years | $12,959 |
Top Solar Installers in Derry
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Some solar installers, especially local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Derry, optimizing your ROI.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Derry, 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
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 Derry
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Derry
For many Derry homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Derry, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
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. That's why it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Derry offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's important to keep that in mind as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Derry, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Derry have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $11,154 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,157 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,303 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,592 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $28,024 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,599 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,316 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $42,177 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar panels, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can verify your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
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 Derry, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Derry?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $743.07 per year.
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 their energy production 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.