Solar Panel Cost Guide in Orwigsburg, PA (Mar 2023)
- Orwigsburg Solar Installation Cost: $12,120
- 25-Year Savings: $12,834
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Orwigsburg
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Orwigsburg.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Orwigsburg, the average cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. The average Orwigsburg 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.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. With typical savings of about $14,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Orwigsburg find going solar has a decent ROI.
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 Orwigsburg
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,122 |
| 3 years | $-9,126 |
| 5 years | $-7,129 |
| 7 years | $-5,133 |
| 9 years | $-3,137 |
| 11 years | $-1,140 |
| 13 years | $856 |
| 15 years | $2,852 |
| 17 years | $4,849 |
| 19 years | $6,845 |
| 21 years | $8,841 |
| 23 years | $10,838 |
| 25 years | $12,834 |
Top Solar Installers in Orwigsburg
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 Orwigsburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Orwigsburg
The cost of installing a solar system in Orwigsburg can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can play a part in determining how much you pay. Orwigsburg's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Orwigsburg know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $10,924 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,850 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $18,920 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,132 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,488 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $31,986 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,627 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,410 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from previous customers.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
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 Orwigsburg, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Orwigsburg?
This is a hard 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 more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Orwigsburg have a net metering program?
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 long do solar panels last in Orwigsburg?
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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using 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.