Solar Panel Cost Guide in Smithfield, PA (2023 Update)
- Smithfield Solar Installation Cost: $12,138
- 25-Year Savings: $12,679
- Payback Period: 12.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Smithfield
We go over average solar pricing in Smithfield.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Smithfield, the average cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. Because a 6.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Smithfield, the average price of going solar will be about $12,138 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs will most likely vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Smithfield can save about $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Smithfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,145 |
| 3 years | $-9,160 |
| 5 years | $-7,175 |
| 7 years | $-5,189 |
| 9 years | $-3,204 |
| 11 years | $-1,218 |
| 13 years | $767 |
| 15 years | $2,752 |
| 17 years | $4,738 |
| 19 years | $6,723 |
| 21 years | $8,708 |
| 23 years | $10,694 |
| 25 years | $12,679 |
Top Solar Installers in Smithfield
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you're looking for a solar company in Smithfield, the EcoWatch team has compiled 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 Smithfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Smithfield
For many Smithfield homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Smithfield, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, 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 brand and kind of equipment you want 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 come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space 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 additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Smithfield, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Companies that 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're looking for 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $10,754 | 12.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,624 | 12.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $18,637 | 12.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $22,793 | 12.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,091 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $31,533 | 11.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,117 | 11.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $40,844 | 11.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you'd like plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
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 Smithfield, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Smithfield?
The average cost of solar panels in Smithfield 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 things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Smithfield?
You can't get solar panels for free in Smithfield. However, you may still be able to afford 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Smithfield?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
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 amount 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.