Solar Panel Cost Guide in Oreland, PA (2023 Update)
- Oreland Solar Installation Cost: $11,763
- 25-Year Savings: $14,882
- Payback Period: 11.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Oreland
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Oreland.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Oreland, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Oreland, most homeowners require a 6.6-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $11,763, or $16,821 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Oreland depending on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Even with the large upfront cost, the average Oreland homeowner can save about $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Oreland
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,697 |
| 3 years | $-8,566 |
| 5 years | $-6,434 |
| 7 years | $-4,302 |
| 9 years | $-2,171 |
| 11 years | $-39 |
| 13 years | $2,093 |
| 15 years | $4,224 |
| 17 years | $6,356 |
| 19 years | $8,487 |
| 21 years | $10,619 |
| 23 years | $12,751 |
| 25 years | $14,882 |
Top Solar Installers in Oreland
Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can benefit from and by providing warranties and repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some 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 Oreland
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Oreland
For many Oreland homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Oreland, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,550 per kilowatt in Oreland. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular choice because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Oreland, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Oreland know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $13,139 | 11.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $17,804 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $22,612 | 11.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $27,562 | 10.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $32,656 | 10.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $37,892 | 10.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $43,271 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $48,793 | 9.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Oreland, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you'd like to install plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have different panels.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
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 Oreland, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Oreland?
The average cost of solar panels in Oreland 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 use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Oreland?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't 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.
Does Oreland have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having 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.