Solar Panel Cost Guide in Old Forge, PA (Mar 2023)
- Old Forge Solar Installation Cost: $12,370
- 25-Year Savings: $11,941
- Payback Period: 12.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Old Forge
We break down average solar pricing in Old Forge.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Old Forge, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. Because a 6.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Old Forge, the average price of going solar will be about $12,370 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Old Forge, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Old Forge
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,398 |
| 3 years | $-9,453 |
| 5 years | $-7,508 |
| 7 years | $-5,563 |
| 9 years | $-3,618 |
| 11 years | $-1,673 |
| 13 years | $272 |
| 15 years | $2,216 |
| 17 years | $4,161 |
| 19 years | $6,106 |
| 21 years | $8,051 |
| 23 years | $9,996 |
| 25 years | $11,941 |
Top Solar Installers in Old Forge
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since installing solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Plus, if you aren't sure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional 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 Old Forge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Old Forge
While the average cost of a solar system in Old Forge is $12,370, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Old Forge, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Old Forge homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Old Forge homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Old Forge, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger 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 | $9,910 | 13.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $13,499 | 13.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $17,231 | 12.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $21,106 | 12.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $25,123 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $29,284 | 12.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $33,587 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $38,033 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose greatly influences 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:
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- 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 large role in the company you go with.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
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 Old Forge, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Old Forge?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, 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 consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Old Forge?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Old Forge have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.