Solar Panel Cost Guide in Plains, PA (Mar 2023)
- Plains Solar Installation Cost: $12,406
- 25-Year Savings: $8,802
- Payback Period: 14.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Plains
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Plains.
The average cost of solar panels in Plains is 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.0-kW system would cost about $12,406 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 actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. Despite the high initial cost, the average Plains homeowner can save around $12,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Plains for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Plains
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,557 |
| 3 years | $-9,861 |
| 5 years | $-8,164 |
| 7 years | $-6,467 |
| 9 years | $-4,771 |
| 11 years | $-3,074 |
| 13 years | $-1,377 |
| 15 years | $319 |
| 17 years | $2,016 |
| 19 years | $3,713 |
| 21 years | $5,409 |
| 23 years | $7,106 |
| 25 years | $8,802 |
Top Solar Installers in Plains
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a difficult project, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar panel company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Plains:
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 Plains
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Plains
There are many factors that can determine 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
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. 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 in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Plains average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Plains provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. It's a good idea to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining your pricing. Plains' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $7,177 | 15.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $9,855 | 14.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $12,676 | 14.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $15,640 | 14.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $18,746 | 14.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $21,995 | 13.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $25,387 | 13.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $28,922 | 13.2 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 selecting a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure 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 based on their locations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which brand 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 ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
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 Plains, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Plains?
The average cost of solar panels in Plains is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Plains?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.