Solar Panel Cost Guide in Palmer, PA (2023 Update)
- Palmer Solar Installation Cost: $11,971
- 25-Year Savings: $12,983
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Palmer
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Palmer.
In Palmer, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Palmer, most homeowners require a 6.7-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $11,977, or $17,127 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Palmer homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Palmer can save around $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar installer in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Palmer
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,887 |
| 3 years | $-11,721 |
| 5 years | $-11,555 |
| 7 years | $-11,388 |
| 9 years | $-11,222 |
| 11 years | $-11,056 |
| 13 years | $-10,889 |
| 15 years | $-10,723 |
| 17 years | $-10,557 |
| 19 years | $-10,390 |
| 21 years | $-10,224 |
| 23 years | $-10,058 |
| 25 years | $-9,891 |
Top Solar Installers in Palmer
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a dangerous project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can take advantage of and by offering warranties and repairs.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
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 Palmer
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Palmer
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Palmer: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $2,550. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Palmer, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Palmer homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can impact how much it costs. Palmer's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Palmer have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $11,188 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,202 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,360 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,660 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $28,103 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,689 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,418 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $42,290 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar energy system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Palmer, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Palmer?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Palmer have a net metering program?
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 utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger level of energy production.
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.