Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pittsburgh, PA (2023 Update)
- Pittsburgh Solar Installation Cost: $12,441
- 25-Year Savings: $16,000
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pittsburgh
We break down average solar pricing in Pittsburgh.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Pittsburgh it's 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,441 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $16,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in your area for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Pittsburgh
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,816 |
| 3 years | $-7,565 |
| 5 years | $-4,314 |
| 7 years | $-1,064 |
| 9 years | $2,187 |
| 11 years | $5,438 |
| 13 years | $8,689 |
| 15 years | $11,939 |
| 17 years | $15,190 |
| 19 years | $18,441 |
| 21 years | $21,692 |
| 23 years | $24,942 |
| 25 years | $28,193 |
Top Solar Installers in Pittsburgh
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra effort and expertise. For that reason, most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding 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 vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. 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
See all of the solar companies in Pittsburgh
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pittsburgh
There are several criteria that can determine your 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
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,550. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Pittsburgh average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Pittsburgh to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Pittsburgh, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $13,345 | 11.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $18,079 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $22,956 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $27,975 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $33,138 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $38,443 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $43,891 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $49,481 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it's necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and 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
EcoWatch's Pittsburgh, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Pittsburgh?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Pittsburgh?
A solar panel system isn't free in Pittsburgh, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Is it worth going solar in Pittsburgh?
Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
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 install 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.