Solar Panel Cost Guide in Paoli, PA (2024 Update)
- Paoli Solar Installation Cost: $16,246
- 25-Year Savings: $14,976
- Payback Period: 15.2 Years
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Updated February 03, 2024
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Paoli
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Paoli.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Paoli, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Paoli is around 6.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,246 for a solar installation, or $23,232 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Paoli based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Paoli
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-14,955 |
3 years | $-12,375 |
5 years | $-9,794 |
7 years | $-7,214 |
9 years | $-4,633 |
11 years | $-2,053 |
13 years | $528 |
15 years | $3,108 |
17 years | $5,689 |
19 years | $8,270 |
21 years | $10,850 |
23 years | $13,431 |
25 years | $16,011 |
Top Solar Installers in Paoli
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels on your own can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Paoli, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Paoli
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Paoli
There are several criteria that can influence your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Paoli, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,550 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Paoli, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Paoli, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.Although solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Paoli 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 opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Paoli, 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 equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $8,948 | 15.9 years |
8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $12,329 | 15.5 years |
10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $15,908 | 15.2 years |
12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $19,686 | 14.9 years |
14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $23,662 | 14.6 years |
16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $27,838 | 14.3 years |
18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $32,212 | 14.0 years |
20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $36,785 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from 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 company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before making your decision.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Paoli, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Paoli?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Paoli 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 offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.