Solar Panel Cost Guide in Emerald Lakes, PA (2023 Update)
- Emerald Lakes Solar Installation Cost: $12,141
- 25-Year Savings: $12,170
- Payback Period: 12.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Emerald Lakes
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Emerald Lakes.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Emerald Lakes typically cost around 2.55. Since a 6.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Emerald Lakes, the average price of going solar will be about $12,138 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Emerald Lakes homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average Emerald Lakes homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Emerald Lakes
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,795 |
| 3 years | $-8,104 |
| 5 years | $-5,413 |
| 7 years | $-2,722 |
| 9 years | $-31 |
| 11 years | $2,661 |
| 13 years | $5,352 |
| 15 years | $8,043 |
| 17 years | $10,734 |
| 19 years | $13,425 |
| 21 years | $16,117 |
| 23 years | $18,808 |
| 25 years | $21,499 |
Top Solar Installers in Emerald Lakes
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Companies can also provide access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for you.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Emerald Lakes, the EcoWatch team has put together 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
See all of the solar companies in Emerald Lakes
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Emerald Lakes
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Emerald Lakes is $12,138, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,550. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Emerald Lakes average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Emerald Lakes homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. Although solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Emerald Lakes homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Emerald Lakes are more knowledgeable 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 | $10,307 | 13.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,028 | 12.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $17,892 | 12.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $21,899 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $26,049 | 12.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $30,341 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $34,777 | 11.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $39,355 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, such as:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which model 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 peruse their list of options before deciding.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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 Emerald Lakes, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Emerald Lakes?
The average cost of solar panels in Emerald Lakes is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Emerald Lakes?
Solar panels aren't free in Emerald Lakes, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Emerald Lakes?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.