Solar Panel Cost Guide in Middle Smithfield, PA (2023 Update)
- Middle Smithfield Solar Installation Cost: $12,141
- 25-Year Savings: $13,089
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Middle Smithfield
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Middle Smithfield.
The average cost of solar panels in Middle Smithfield is 2.55 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Middle Smithfield, most homeowners require a 6.8-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $12,138, or $17,357 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar company in Middle Smithfield, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Middle Smithfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,898 |
| 3 years | $-8,412 |
| 5 years | $-5,926 |
| 7 years | $-3,440 |
| 9 years | $-954 |
| 11 years | $1,532 |
| 13 years | $4,018 |
| 15 years | $6,504 |
| 17 years | $8,990 |
| 19 years | $11,476 |
| 21 years | $13,962 |
| 23 years | $16,448 |
| 25 years | $18,934 |
Top Solar Installers in Middle Smithfield
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Hiring a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Another benefit of going with a solar company is that they can help you make the most of your return of investment by bringing down your future costs of repairs and replacements due to warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Middle Smithfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Middle Smithfield
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Middle Smithfield: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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 energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Middle Smithfield average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid 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. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Middle Smithfield is the company you hire to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, you'll have many options for solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $11,118 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,109 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,243 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,521 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,940 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,503 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,209 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $42,057 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
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 Middle Smithfield, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Middle Smithfield?
The average cost of solar panels in Middle Smithfield 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 stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Middle Smithfield have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually 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.