Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hershey, PA (2023 Update)
- Hershey Solar Installation Cost: $11,989
- 25-Year Savings: $12,965
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hershey
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Hershey.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Hershey it's 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.7-kW system would cost about $11,995 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Hershey based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. With average savings of about $14,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Hershey find installing solar panels can be quite rewarding.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hershey
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,906 |
| 3 years | $-11,739 |
| 5 years | $-11,573 |
| 7 years | $-11,407 |
| 9 years | $-11,240 |
| 11 years | $-11,074 |
| 13 years | $-10,908 |
| 15 years | $-10,741 |
| 17 years | $-10,575 |
| 19 years | $-10,408 |
| 21 years | $-10,242 |
| 23 years | $-10,076 |
| 25 years | $-9,909 |
Top Solar Installers in Hershey
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy usage, but going with a solar company can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Hershey
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hershey
For many Hershey homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Hershey, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Hershey, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. 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. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Hershey average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Hershey, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's a good idea to include 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 the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panels can impact your pricing. Hershey's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $11,154 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,157 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,303 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,592 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $28,024 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,599 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,316 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $42,177 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Hershey, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: If you're worried about the durability of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost 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: Well-established companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project 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
EcoWatch's Hershey, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hershey?
The average cost of solar panels in Hershey 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 type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Hershey?
Solar panels aren't free in Hershey, 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 further reduce the cost.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Hershey, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally 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.