Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Manheim, PA (2023 Update)
- North Manheim Solar Installation Cost: $12,120
- 25-Year Savings: $12,705
- Payback Period: 12.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Manheim
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in North Manheim.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in North Manheim generally cost about 2.55. The average North Manheim homeowner needs a 6.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,120 with the federal tax credit, or $17,332 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in North Manheim based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in North Manheim for a personalized estimate.
Solar savings over time in North Manheim
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,127 |
| 3 years | $-9,141 |
| 5 years | $-7,155 |
| 7 years | $-5,169 |
| 9 years | $-3,183 |
| 11 years | $-1,197 |
| 13 years | $789 |
| 15 years | $2,775 |
| 17 years | $4,761 |
| 19 years | $6,747 |
| 21 years | $8,733 |
| 23 years | $10,719 |
| 25 years | $12,705 |
Top Solar Installers in North Manheim
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Manheim
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Manheim
The cost of installing a solar system in North Manheim can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in North Manheim, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the North Manheim average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system 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 five to seven years on average. While solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for North Manheim homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in North Manheim, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in North Manheim are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $10,810 | 12.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,699 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $18,730 | 12.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $22,905 | 12.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,222 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $31,682 | 11.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,285 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,031 | 11.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you choose.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
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 Manheim, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Manheim?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in North Manheim?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in North Manheim?
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 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 usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.