Solar Panel Cost Guide in East Petersburg, PA (2023 Update)
- East Petersburg Solar Installation Cost: $11,727
- 25-Year Savings: $12,583
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in East Petersburg
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in East Petersburg.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in East Petersburg it's 2.55 per watt. The average East Petersburg homeowner needs a 6.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,727 with the federal tax credit, or $16,770 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in East Petersburg
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,755 |
| 3 years | $-8,810 |
| 5 years | $-6,865 |
| 7 years | $-4,920 |
| 9 years | $-2,976 |
| 11 years | $-1,031 |
| 13 years | $914 |
| 15 years | $2,859 |
| 17 years | $4,804 |
| 19 years | $6,749 |
| 21 years | $8,694 |
| 23 years | $10,638 |
| 25 years | $12,583 |
Top Solar Installers in East Petersburg
Installing solar panels on your own can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 East Petersburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in East Petersburg
Although the average cost of a solar system in East Petersburg is $11,727, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,550. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the East Petersburg average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many East Petersburg homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of sustainable energy solutions in East Petersburg, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in East Petersburg have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $11,056 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,027 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,141 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,398 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,797 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,339 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,024 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,852 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar system installers 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.
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 East Petersburg, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in East Petersburg?
The average cost of solar panels in East Petersburg 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in East Petersburg?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in East Petersburg?
Although 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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.