Solar Panel Cost Guide in Orwigsburg, PA (2023 Update)
- Orwigsburg Solar Installation Cost: $12,114
- 25-Year Savings: $12,840
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Orwigsburg
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Orwigsburg.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Orwigsburg typically cost around 2.55. 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 the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of going solar can vary based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Despite the high upfront cost, the average Orwigsburg homeowner can save around $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar company in Orwigsburg, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Orwigsburg
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,871 |
| 3 years | $-8,385 |
| 5 years | $-5,899 |
| 7 years | $-3,413 |
| 9 years | $-927 |
| 11 years | $1,559 |
| 13 years | $4,045 |
| 15 years | $6,531 |
| 17 years | $9,017 |
| 19 years | $11,503 |
| 21 years | $13,989 |
| 23 years | $16,475 |
| 25 years | $18,961 |
Top Solar Installers in Orwigsburg
Many homeowners choose to hire a solar installation company since trying to install solar panels on your own can be a lot of work. Plus, if you aren't sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Orwigsburg, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Orwigsburg
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Orwigsburg
Although the average cost of a solar system in Orwigsburg is $12,120, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,550. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Plus, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Orwigsburg, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Orwigsburg, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 installer 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 things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid 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 good reviews from past customers.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
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 Orwigsburg, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Orwigsburg?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Orwigsburg?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Orwigsburg?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires 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.