Solar Panel Cost Guide in Manchester, PA (2023 Update)
- Manchester Solar Installation Cost: $11,779
- 25-Year Savings: $14,377
- Payback Period: 11.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Manchester
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Manchester.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Manchester, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.55 per watt. The average Manchester homeowner needs a 6.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,781 with the federal tax credit, or $16,847 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Manchester, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Manchester
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,692 |
| 3 years | $-11,518 |
| 5 years | $-11,343 |
| 7 years | $-11,169 |
| 9 years | $-10,994 |
| 11 years | $-10,820 |
| 13 years | $-10,646 |
| 15 years | $-10,471 |
| 17 years | $-10,297 |
| 19 years | $-10,122 |
| 21 years | $-9,948 |
| 23 years | $-9,774 |
| 25 years | $-9,599 |
Top Solar Installers in Manchester
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar installers offer can be helpful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Manchester, 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
See all of the solar companies in Manchester
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Manchester
For many Manchester homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Manchester, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,550 per kilowatt in Manchester. The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Moreover, solar equipment is 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 researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Manchester provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Manchester, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $12,644 | 11.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $17,144 | 11.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $21,787 | 11.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $26,573 | 11.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $31,501 | 10.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $36,573 | 10.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $41,787 | 10.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $47,144 | 10.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you choose.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Manchester, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Manchester?
The average cost of solar panels in Manchester is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual 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 Manchester?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Manchester, 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 contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.