Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dunbar, PA (2023 Update)
- Dunbar Solar Installation Cost: $12,531
- 25-Year Savings: $9,723
- Payback Period: 14.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dunbar
We go over average solar pricing in Dunbar.
In Dunbar, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,531 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Dunbar 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. Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Dunbar homeowner can save about $12,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar company in Dunbar, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dunbar
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,641 |
| 3 years | $-9,860 |
| 5 years | $-8,080 |
| 7 years | $-6,300 |
| 9 years | $-4,519 |
| 11 years | $-2,739 |
| 13 years | $-959 |
| 15 years | $822 |
| 17 years | $2,602 |
| 19 years | $4,382 |
| 21 years | $6,162 |
| 23 years | $7,943 |
| 25 years | $9,723 |
Top Solar Installers in Dunbar
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Dunbar
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dunbar
For many Dunbar homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Dunbar, 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 affects the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will significantly influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Dunbar offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Dunbar is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you'll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. Additionally, some companies in Dunbar know more 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 help you save 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 | $7,869 | 14.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $10,777 | 14.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $13,829 | 14.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $17,023 | 13.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $20,360 | 13.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $23,839 | 13.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $27,462 | 13.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $31,227 | 12.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Dunbar, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
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 Dunbar, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Dunbar?
The average cost of solar panels in Dunbar 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 certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Dunbar?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure 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.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
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 $633.57 per year.
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.