Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mckean, PA (2023 Update)
- Mckean Solar Installation Cost: $12,370
- 25-Year Savings: $19,102
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mckean
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Mckean.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Mckean typically cost about 2.55. The average Mckean homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,370 with the federal tax credit, or $17,689 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Mckean based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Mckean homeowner can save about $17,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Mckean for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Mckean
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,111 |
| 3 years | $-8,593 |
| 5 years | $-6,076 |
| 7 years | $-3,558 |
| 9 years | $-1,040 |
| 11 years | $1,478 |
| 13 years | $3,995 |
| 15 years | $6,513 |
| 17 years | $9,031 |
| 19 years | $11,549 |
| 21 years | $14,066 |
| 23 years | $16,584 |
| 25 years | $19,102 |
Top Solar Installers in Mckean
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. The expertise that solar installers provide can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
Working with a vetted solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Mckean
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mckean
The cost of installing a solar system in Mckean can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important 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 energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,550 per kilowatt in Mckean. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Mckean average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Mckean homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Mckean, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Mckean have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $16,128 | 10.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $21,790 | 10.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $27,595 | 9.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $33,542 | 9.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $39,632 | 9.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $45,865 | 9.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $52,241 | 9.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $58,759 | 8.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Mckean, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mckean?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, 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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Mckean?
A solar panel system isn't free in Mckean, 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 further reduce the cost.
Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Mckean is currently $170,941, which means you can look forward to a value of about $7,009 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Mckean is a fruitful investment.
How long do solar panels last in Mckean?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to 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.