Solar Panel Cost Guide in Glenolden, PA (2024 Update)
- Glenolden Solar Installation Cost: $16,181
- 25-Year Savings: $15,023
- Payback Period: 15.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Glenolden
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Glenolden.
In Glenolden, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Glenolden is around 6.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,181 for a solar installation, or $23,139 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To get a free quote from a top solar company in Glenolden, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Glenolden
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,890 |
| 3 years | $-12,310 |
| 5 years | $-9,729 |
| 7 years | $-7,149 |
| 9 years | $-4,568 |
| 11 years | $-1,988 |
| 13 years | $593 |
| 15 years | $3,174 |
| 17 years | $5,754 |
| 19 years | $8,335 |
| 21 years | $10,915 |
| 23 years | $13,496 |
| 25 years | $16,076 |
Top Solar Installers in Glenolden
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to use a solar installation company since handling can be a difficult project. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can take advantage of and by providing warranties and repairs.
Working with a licensed solar company 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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
See all of the solar companies in Glenolden
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Glenolden
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Glenolden: 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
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation 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 $3,550.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Glenolden, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Glenolden, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to factor 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 opt for to install your solar panel system can influence your pricing. Glenolden’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $9,047 | 15.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $12,460 | 15.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $16,072 | 15.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $19,882 | 14.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $23,892 | 14.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $28,100 | 14.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $32,508 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $37,113 | 13.7 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 durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer 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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
EcoWatch's Glenolden, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Glenolden?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Glenolden?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Is it worth going solar in Glenolden?
Solar panels can be a good investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power 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.