Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jim Thorpe, PA (2023 Update)
- Jim Thorpe Solar Installation Cost: $12,174
- 25-Year Savings: $12,566
- Payback Period: 12.3 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jim Thorpe
We go over average solar pricing in Jim Thorpe.
The average cost of solar panels in Jim Thorpe is 2.55 per watt. Since a 6.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Jim Thorpe, the average price of going solar will be about $12,174 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Remember 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 needs, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more. With average savings of about $14,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Jim Thorpe find installing solar panels can pay off big.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Jim Thorpe
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,184 |
| 3 years | $-9,205 |
| 5 years | $-7,226 |
| 7 years | $-5,247 |
| 9 years | $-3,267 |
| 11 years | $-1,288 |
| 13 years | $691 |
| 15 years | $2,670 |
| 17 years | $4,649 |
| 19 years | $6,628 |
| 21 years | $8,607 |
| 23 years | $10,587 |
| 25 years | $12,566 |
Top Solar Installers in Jim Thorpe
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra effort and knowledge. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your home.
If you're looking for a solar company in Jim Thorpe, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Jim Thorpe
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jim Thorpe
For many Jim Thorpe homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Jim Thorpe, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,550. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Jim Thorpe, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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 financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Jim Thorpe, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by offering 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 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 | $10,634 | 12.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,464 | 12.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $18,437 | 12.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $22,553 | 12.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $26,811 | 11.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $31,213 | 11.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $35,757 | 11.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $40,444 | 11.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Jim Thorpe, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: When reading through your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
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 Jim Thorpe, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Jim Thorpe?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Jim Thorpe have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.