Solar Panel Cost Guide in McKean, PA (2023 Update)
- McKean Solar Installation Cost: $12,362
- 25-Year Savings: $19,110
- Payback Period: 9.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in McKean
We go over average solar pricing in McKean.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in McKean typically cost about 2.55. Because a 6.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in McKean, the average price of going solar will be about $12,370 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in McKean see about $17,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in McKean that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in McKean
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,884 |
| 3 years | $-7,929 |
| 5 years | $-4,974 |
| 7 years | $-2,019 |
| 9 years | $936 |
| 11 years | $3,891 |
| 13 years | $6,845 |
| 15 years | $9,800 |
| 17 years | $12,755 |
| 19 years | $15,710 |
| 21 years | $18,665 |
| 23 years | $21,620 |
| 25 years | $24,575 |
Top Solar Installers in McKean
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. 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
See all of the solar companies in McKean
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in McKean
Although the average cost of a solar system in McKean is $12,370, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,550. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like McKean, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in McKean, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. 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 can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can influence the cost. McKean's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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
There are numerous companies to choose from in McKean, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can verify your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
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 McKean, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in McKean?
The average cost of solar panels in McKean 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 like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in McKean?
Each state has some form 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 many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.