Solar Panel Cost Guide in Macungie, PA (Mar 2023)
- Macungie Solar Installation Cost: $11,924
- 25-Year Savings: $13,030
- Payback Period: 11.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Macungie
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Macungie.
In Macungie, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. The average Macungie homeowner needs a 6.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,924 with the federal tax credit, or $17,051 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can be above or below the average in Macungie based on a variety of factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Macungie that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Macungie
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,926 |
| 3 years | $-8,929 |
| 5 years | $-6,933 |
| 7 years | $-4,937 |
| 9 years | $-2,940 |
| 11 years | $-944 |
| 13 years | $1,052 |
| 15 years | $3,049 |
| 17 years | $5,045 |
| 19 years | $7,041 |
| 21 years | $9,038 |
| 23 years | $11,034 |
| 25 years | $13,030 |
Top Solar Installers in Macungie
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding 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 on the hunt for a solar installer in Macungie, the EcoWatch team has organized 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 Macungie
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Macungie
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Macungie: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,550. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable choice because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Macungie is the company you get to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and find a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for 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 | $11,287 | 12.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,335 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,525 | 11.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,859 | 11.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $28,335 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,954 | 11.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,716 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $42,620 | 10.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the endurance of your solar energy system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Macungie, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Macungie?
The average cost of solar panels in Macungie 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 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 Macungie?
Solar panels aren't free in Macungie, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Macungie, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.