Solar Panel Cost Guide in Downingtown, PA (2025 Update)
- Downingtown Solar Installation Cost: $16,246
- 25-Year Savings: $14,976
- Payback Period: 15.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Downingtown
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Downingtown.
In Downingtown, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Since a 6.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Downingtown, the average price of going solar will be about $16,246 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs may look different based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $15,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Downingtown, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Downingtown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,955 |
| 3 years | $-12,375 |
| 5 years | $-9,794 |
| 7 years | $-7,214 |
| 9 years | $-4,633 |
| 11 years | $-2,053 |
| 13 years | $528 |
| 15 years | $3,108 |
| 17 years | $5,689 |
| 19 years | $8,270 |
| 21 years | $10,850 |
| 23 years | $13,431 |
| 25 years | $16,011 |
Top Solar Installers in Downingtown
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra labor and handiness. For that reason, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
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 Downingtown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Downingtown
For many Downingtown homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Downingtown, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $3,550. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Downingtown, where sunlight is relatively 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 a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Downingtown, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you select will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $8,948 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $12,329 | 15.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $15,908 | 15.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $19,686 | 14.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $23,662 | 14.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $27,838 | 14.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $32,212 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $36,785 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a good company.
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 Downingtown, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Downingtown?
The average cost of solar panels in Downingtown 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 like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Downingtown?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Downingtown. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Downingtown, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Downingtown?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.