Solar Panel Cost Guide in Saw Creek, PA (2023 Update)

  • Saw Creek Solar Installation Cost: $12,142
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,027
  • Payback Period: 12.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Saw Creek

Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Saw Creek.

In Saw Creek, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Saw Creek is around 6.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,138 for a solar installation, or $17,357 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on power bills.

To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Saw Creek

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-10,899
3 years $-8,413
5 years $-5,927
7 years $-3,441
9 years $-955
11 years $1,531
13 years $4,017
15 years $6,503
17 years $8,989
19 years $11,475
21 years $13,961
23 years $16,447
25 years $18,933

Top Solar Installers in Saw Creek

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.

Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Saw Creek

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Saw Creek

Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Saw Creek: 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 energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,550. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Saw Creek homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Saw Creek, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.

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 $11,062 12.5 years
8 kW $2.60 $14,566 $15,035 12.3 years
10 kW $2.55 $17,850 $19,150 12.1 years
12 kW $2.50 $20,992 $23,409 11.8 years
14 kW $2.45 $23,990 $27,810 11.6 years
16 kW $2.40 $26,846 $32,354 11.3 years
18 kW $2.35 $29,560 $37,041 11.1 years
20 kW $2.29 $32,130 $41,870 10.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your 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 a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you opt for.
  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Saw Creek, PA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Saw Creek?

The average cost of solar panels in Saw Creek is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Are solar panels free in Saw Creek?

You can't get solar panels for free in Saw Creek. 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'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Is making the switch to solar worth it?

Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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 cover 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.

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