Solar Panel Cost Guide in Kutztown University, PA (2023 Update)

  • Kutztown University Solar Installation Cost: $11,872
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,725
  • Payback Period: 11.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Kutztown University

Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Kutztown University.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Kutztown University it's 2.55 per watt. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Kutztown University, most homeowners require a 6.7-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $11,870, or $16,974 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Despite the significant initial cost, the average Kutztown University homeowner can save about $15,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Kutztown University

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,787
3 years $-11,616
5 years $-11,446
7 years $-11,275
9 years $-11,104
11 years $-10,934
13 years $-10,763
15 years $-10,592
17 years $-10,422
19 years $-10,251
21 years $-10,080
23 years $-9,910
25 years $-9,739

Top Solar Installers in Kutztown University

DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Kutztown University, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Kutztown University

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Kutztown University

There are a number of factors that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Kutztown University average.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final factor to keep in mind when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Kutztown University is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you'll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within your budget.

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 $11,953 12.1 years
8 kW $2.60 $14,566 $16,223 11.8 years
10 kW $2.55 $17,850 $20,636 11.6 years
12 kW $2.50 $20,992 $25,192 11.4 years
14 kW $2.45 $23,990 $29,890 11.1 years
16 kW $2.40 $26,846 $34,731 10.9 years
18 kW $2.35 $29,560 $39,715 10.7 years
20 kW $2.29 $32,130 $44,842 10.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
  • Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before deciding.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Kutztown University, PA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Kutztown University?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Kutztown University?

A solar panel system isn't free in Kutztown University, 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 you can take advantage of.

How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $769.72 per year.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.

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.

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