Solar Panel Cost Guide in Millcreek, PA (2023 Update)
- Millcreek Solar Installation Cost: $12,362
- 25-Year Savings: $18,662
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Millcreek
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Millcreek.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Millcreek, the average cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Millcreek, most homeowners require a 6.9-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $12,370, or $17,689 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Millcreek based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Millcreek see about $17,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Millcreek
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,258 |
| 3 years | $-12,051 |
| 5 years | $-11,845 |
| 7 years | $-11,638 |
| 9 years | $-11,431 |
| 11 years | $-11,224 |
| 13 years | $-11,017 |
| 15 years | $-10,810 |
| 17 years | $-10,604 |
| 19 years | $-10,397 |
| 21 years | $-10,190 |
| 23 years | $-9,983 |
| 25 years | $-9,776 |
Top Solar Installers in Millcreek
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Another great thing about using a vetted solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
Working with a licensed 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 Millcreek
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Millcreek
There are several criteria that can play into your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
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, you can expect your total to increase by around $2,550. The brand of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will largely influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to think 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 searching for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. 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 lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panel system can play a role in determining how much it costs. Millcreek's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Millcreek know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $15,740 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $21,272 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $26,947 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $32,764 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $38,725 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $44,828 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $51,074 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $57,463 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- 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: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
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 Millcreek, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Millcreek?
The average cost of solar panels in Millcreek 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 things like the type 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 definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $895.93 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size 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 generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.