Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ridgway, PA (2023 Update)
- Ridgway Solar Installation Cost: $12,852
- 25-Year Savings: $15,747
- Payback Period: 11.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ridgway
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Ridgway.
The average cost of a solar system in Ridgway is 2.55 per watt. The average Ridgway homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,852 with the federal tax credit, or $18,378 before the 30% 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 going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Even with the high initial cost, the average Ridgway homeowner can save around $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Ridgway for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Ridgway
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,708 |
| 3 years | $-9,420 |
| 5 years | $-7,132 |
| 7 years | $-4,844 |
| 9 years | $-2,556 |
| 11 years | $-268 |
| 13 years | $2,019 |
| 15 years | $4,307 |
| 17 years | $6,595 |
| 19 years | $8,883 |
| 21 years | $11,171 |
| 23 years | $13,459 |
| 25 years | $15,747 |
Top Solar Installers in Ridgway
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and know-how. For that reason, most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Ridgway, we've put together 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 Ridgway
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ridgway
While the average cost of a solar system in Ridgway is $12,852, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Ridgway, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Ridgway offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. It's a good idea to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger 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 clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Ridgway, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may come across 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 | $12,691 | 11.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $17,206 | 11.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $21,865 | 11.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $26,666 | 11.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $31,611 | 10.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $36,698 | 10.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $41,928 | 10.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $47,300 | 10.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, 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:
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel 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 Ridgway, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ridgway?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Ridgway?
You can't get solar panels for free in Ridgway. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Ridgway have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Ridgway?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.