Solar Panel Cost Guide in Guilford, PA (2023 Update)
- Guilford Solar Installation Cost: $11,893
- 25-Year Savings: $12,684
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Guilford
We go over average solar pricing in Guilford.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Guilford typically cost about 2.55. Because a 6.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Guilford, the average price of going solar will be about $11,888 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will differ based on your energy needs and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Guilford homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Guilford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Guilford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,731 |
| 3 years | $-8,407 |
| 5 years | $-6,083 |
| 7 years | $-3,760 |
| 9 years | $-1,436 |
| 11 years | $888 |
| 13 years | $3,211 |
| 15 years | $5,535 |
| 17 years | $7,858 |
| 19 years | $10,182 |
| 21 years | $12,506 |
| 23 years | $14,829 |
| 25 years | $17,153 |
Top Solar Installers in Guilford
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra time and expertise. Because of that, most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren't sure what kind of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar company can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are a number of 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 Guilford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Guilford
For many Guilford homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Guilford, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation 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. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Guilford average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Guilford homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. Though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Guilford homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar system can affect the cost. Guilford's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $10,994 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,945 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,038 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,274 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,652 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,174 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,838 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,645 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts 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:
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar panel system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
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 Guilford, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Guilford?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for lots 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 fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out 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 house 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.