Solar Panel Cost Guide in McKean, PA (2024 Update)
- McKean Solar Installation Cost: $17,209
- 25-Year Savings: $19,110
- Payback Period: 13.7 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in McKean
We break down average solar pricing in McKean.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in McKean, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average McKean homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,209 with the federal tax credit, or $24,609 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in McKean depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Despite the large initial 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 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 | $-15,732 |
| 3 years | $-12,777 |
| 5 years | $-9,822 |
| 7 years | $-6,867 |
| 9 years | $-3,912 |
| 11 years | $-957 |
| 13 years | $1,998 |
| 15 years | $4,953 |
| 17 years | $7,908 |
| 19 years | $10,863 |
| 21 years | $13,818 |
| 23 years | $16,772 |
| 25 years | $19,727 |
Top Solar Installers in McKean
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar companies offer can be useful as well, particularly if you don’t quite know what brand of solar equipment you need.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in McKean
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in McKean
There are several factors that can influence your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation need 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 $3,550.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many McKean homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in McKean, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.69 | $15,506 | $11,760 | 14.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $16,078 | 13.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $20,595 | 13.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $25,310 | 13.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $30,224 | 13.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $35,337 | 12.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $40,649 | 12.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $46,159 | 12.3 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have different panels.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's McKean, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in McKean?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much 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 needs and the average daily 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.