Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Braddock, PA (2023 Update)
- North Braddock Solar Installation Cost: $12,441
- 25-Year Savings: $17,273
- Payback Period: 10.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Braddock
See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in North Braddock.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in North Braddock, the average cost of solar panels is 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,441 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in North Braddock can save about $16,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Braddock
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,253 |
| 3 years | $-8,876 |
| 5 years | $-6,499 |
| 7 years | $-4,122 |
| 9 years | $-1,744 |
| 11 years | $633 |
| 13 years | $3,010 |
| 15 years | $5,387 |
| 17 years | $7,764 |
| 19 years | $10,141 |
| 21 years | $12,518 |
| 23 years | $14,895 |
| 25 years | $17,273 |
Top Solar Installers in North Braddock
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't certain which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
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 North Braddock
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Braddock
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in North Braddock: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production 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 $2,550. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for North Braddock homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. 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 solar installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger 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 | $14,440 | 10.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $19,539 | 10.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $24,781 | 10.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $30,166 | 10.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $35,693 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $41,364 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $47,177 | 9.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $53,132 | 9.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in North Braddock, 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:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 North Braddock, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Braddock?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in North Braddock?
Solar panels aren't free in North Braddock, 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 you can take advantage of.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in North Braddock?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give 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 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 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.