Solar Panel Cost Guide in Etna, PA (2023 Update)
- Etna Solar Installation Cost: $12,441
- 25-Year Savings: $17,273
- Payback Period: 10.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Etna
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Etna.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Etna generally cost around 2.55. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,441 before the 30% federal solar 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 use, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on power bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Etna that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Etna
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,253 |
| 3 years | $-8,876 |
| 5 years | $-6,499 |
| 7 years | $-4,122 |
| 9 years | $-1,744 |
| 11 years | $633 |
| 13 years | $3,010 |
| 15 years | $5,387 |
| 17 years | $7,764 |
| 19 years | $10,141 |
| 21 years | $12,518 |
| 23 years | $14,895 |
| 25 years | $17,273 |
Top Solar Installers in Etna
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels yourself can be hard. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Etna
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Etna
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Etna: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant 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 Etna. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Etna have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's crucial to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar panels can play a part in determining the cost. Etna's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle 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 | $14,440 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $19,539 | 10.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $24,781 | 10.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $30,166 | 10.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $35,693 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $41,364 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $47,177 | 9.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $53,132 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Etna, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Etna, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Etna?
The average cost of solar panels in Etna 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 such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Etna have a net metering program?
Most 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 utility 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?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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 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.