Solar Panel Cost Guide in Erie, PA (Nov 2022)
- Erie Solar Installation Cost: $12,370
- 25-Year Savings: $18,339
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated 11/09/2022
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Erie
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Erie.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Erie it's $3 per watt. The average Erie homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,370, or $9,154 after the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Erie depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Erie homeowner can save around $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar panel company in Erie for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Erie
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,142 |
| 3 years | $-8,685 |
| 5 years | $-6,228 |
| 7 years | $-3,771 |
| 9 years | $-1,315 |
| 11 years | $1,142 |
| 13 years | $3,599 |
| 15 years | $6,056 |
| 17 years | $8,512 |
| 19 years | $10,969 |
| 21 years | $13,426 |
| 23 years | $15,882 |
| 25 years | $18,339 |
Top Solar Installers in Erie
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra time and handiness. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy consumption, but working with a solar installer can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Erie
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Erie
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Erie: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size. Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production use 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. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Erie, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Erie homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Erie, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $15,468 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $20,909 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $26,493 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $32,220 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $38,090 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $44,103 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $50,258 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $56,557 | 9.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the durability of your solar panels, checking your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Erie, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Erie?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Erie?
You can't get solar panels for free in Erie. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Erie?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having 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.
