Solar Panel Cost Guide in Littlestown, PA (2023 Update)
- Littlestown Solar Installation Cost: $11,828
- 25-Year Savings: $15,316
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Littlestown
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Littlestown.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Littlestown generally cost around 2.55. The average solar panel system size in Littlestown is around 6.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,835 for a solar installation, or $16,924 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and how much solar costs for you will most likely vary based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Littlestown homeowners see about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
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 Littlestown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,585 |
| 3 years | $-8,099 |
| 5 years | $-5,613 |
| 7 years | $-3,128 |
| 9 years | $-642 |
| 11 years | $1,844 |
| 13 years | $4,330 |
| 15 years | $6,816 |
| 17 years | $9,302 |
| 19 years | $11,788 |
| 21 years | $14,274 |
| 23 years | $16,760 |
| 25 years | $19,246 |
Top Solar Installers in Littlestown
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some 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 Littlestown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Littlestown
The cost of installing a solar system in Littlestown can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,550 per kilowatt in Littlestown. The brand of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will considerably affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular choice because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you choose will affect 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 | $13,439 | 11.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $18,204 | 11.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $23,113 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $28,163 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $33,357 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $38,694 | 10.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $44,173 | 10.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $49,795 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly impacts your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
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 Littlestown, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Littlestown?
The average cost of solar panels in Littlestown is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Littlestown?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Does Littlestown have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Littlestown?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.