Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lock Haven, PA (Mar 2023)
- Lock Haven Solar Installation Cost: $12,584
- 25-Year Savings: $14,686
- Payback Period: 11.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lock Haven
Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in Lock Haven.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Lock Haven generally cost about 2.55. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,584 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Lock Haven based on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar installer in Lock Haven for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Lock Haven
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,493 |
| 3 years | $-9,312 |
| 5 years | $-7,130 |
| 7 years | $-4,949 |
| 9 years | $-2,767 |
| 11 years | $-585 |
| 13 years | $1,596 |
| 15 years | $3,778 |
| 17 years | $5,960 |
| 19 years | $8,141 |
| 21 years | $10,323 |
| 23 years | $12,504 |
| 25 years | $14,686 |
Top Solar Installers in Lock Haven
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar company in Lock Haven, we've put together 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 Lock Haven
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lock Haven
For many Lock Haven homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Lock Haven, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar 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, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,550. The type of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Further, solar equipment consists of more than 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 looking for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Lock Haven, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Lock Haven is the company you hire to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional 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 | $12,076 | 12.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $16,387 | 11.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $20,841 | 11.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $25,437 | 11.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $30,177 | 11.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $35,059 | 10.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $40,084 | 10.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $45,252 | 10.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you go with.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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 Lock Haven, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Lock Haven?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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 more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Lock Haven?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it usually 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 maximize your savings.
Is it worth going solar in Lock Haven?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.