Solar Panel Cost Guide in Shenandoah, PA (2024 Update)
- Shenandoah Solar Installation Cost: $16,864
- 25-Year Savings: $12,197
- Payback Period: 17.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Shenandoah
We go over average solar pricing in Shenandoah.
The average cost of solar panels in Shenandoah is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.8-kW system would cost about $16,864 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Shenandoah homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With average savings of about $14,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Shenandoah find going solar can pay off big.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installer in Shenandoah, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Shenandoah
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,519 |
| 3 years | $-12,828 |
| 5 years | $-10,136 |
| 7 years | $-7,445 |
| 9 years | $-4,754 |
| 11 years | $-2,063 |
| 13 years | $628 |
| 15 years | $3,320 |
| 17 years | $6,011 |
| 19 years | $8,702 |
| 21 years | $11,393 |
| 23 years | $14,084 |
| 25 years | $16,775 |
Top Solar Installers in Shenandoah
Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, going with a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
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
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
See all of the solar companies in Shenandoah
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Shenandoah
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 Shenandoah: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production need 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 $3,550.The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of clean energy solutions in Shenandoah, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $5,987 | 18.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $8,380 | 17.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $10,972 | 17.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $13,763 | 17.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $16,753 | 16.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $19,941 | 16.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $23,328 | 16.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $26,914 | 15.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will affect not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, including:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which kind 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 take a look at 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
EcoWatch's Shenandoah, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Shenandoah?
The average cost of solar panels in Shenandoah is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Shenandoah?
Solar panels aren’t free in Shenandoah, 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 help lower the cost.
Is going solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you 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 consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can 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.