Solar Panel Cost Guide in Elizabeth, PA (2023 Update)
- Elizabeth Solar Installation Cost: $12,441
- 25-Year Savings: $11,493
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Elizabeth
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Elizabeth.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Elizabeth generally cost about 2.55. The average Elizabeth homeowner needs a 7.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,441 with the federal tax credit, or $17,791 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Elizabeth see about $13,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Elizabeth
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,484 |
| 3 years | $-9,569 |
| 5 years | $-7,655 |
| 7 years | $-5,740 |
| 9 years | $-3,825 |
| 11 years | $-1,910 |
| 13 years | $4 |
| 15 years | $1,919 |
| 17 years | $3,834 |
| 19 years | $5,748 |
| 21 years | $7,663 |
| 23 years | $9,578 |
| 25 years | $11,493 |
Top Solar Installers in Elizabeth
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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
See all of the solar companies in Elizabeth
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Elizabeth
The cost of installing a solar system in Elizabeth can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,550 per kilowatt in Elizabeth. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Elizabeth, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can affect the cost. Elizabeth's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Elizabeth know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage 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 | $9,465 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $12,905 | 13.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $16,488 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $20,214 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $24,083 | 12.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $28,095 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $32,249 | 12.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $36,547 | 11.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from past customers.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you opt for.
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 Elizabeth, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Elizabeth?
The average cost of solar panels in Elizabeth 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places 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 switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.