Solar Panel Cost Guide in Northampton, PA (Mar 2023)
- Northampton Solar Installation Cost: $11,745
- 25-Year Savings: $14,900
- Payback Period: 11.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Northampton
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Northampton.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Northampton generally cost about 2.55. The average solar panel system size in Northampton is around 6.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,745 for a solar installation, or $16,795 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go above or below the average in Northampton based on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Despite the significant initial cost, the average Northampton homeowner can save about $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installer in Northampton, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Northampton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,679 |
| 3 years | $-8,548 |
| 5 years | $-6,416 |
| 7 years | $-4,285 |
| 9 years | $-2,153 |
| 11 years | $-21 |
| 13 years | $2,110 |
| 15 years | $4,242 |
| 17 years | $6,374 |
| 19 years | $8,505 |
| 21 years | $10,637 |
| 23 years | $12,769 |
| 25 years | $14,900 |
Top Solar Installers in Northampton
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it involves extra effort and expertise. For that reason, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a licensed solar company 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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Northampton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Northampton
While the average cost of a solar system in Northampton is $11,745, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Northampton, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Northampton average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Northampton homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Northampton homeowners, they can also increase 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 solar installer you choose will influence your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Northampton know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $13,146 | 11.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $17,813 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $22,623 | 11.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $27,576 | 10.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $32,672 | 10.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $37,911 | 10.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $43,293 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $48,817 | 9.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will affect not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can be 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
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Northampton, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Northampton?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Northampton?
A solar panel system isn't free in Northampton, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location 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 $809.47 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 cover 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.